Put plainly, allergies are not fun. For some people they are annoying, for others downright debilitating. In certain cases, they are even life-threatening. Types of allergies in New York City can often stem from what initially seems ordinary and innocent. Under this mask of harmlessness, an allergen such as a plant or food, can cause the immune system to overreact and lead to a slew of possible symptoms, including watery eyes, coughing or a runny nose.
This can be difficult to deal with, especially when it comes to airborne allergens. However, on a positive note, a skilled pulmonologist can diagnose the specific allergy trigger causing the grief and prepare a course of treatment.
Types of Allergies in NYC
Pollen: On its own, pollen is already one of the main allergens that can cause allergies. The small, light grains produced by certain trees, plants, and grasses are blown about the wind. Common symptoms of this airborne allergen can include:
- Itchy eyes
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Red eyes
This year, New York has been hit by what has been deemed a “pollen tsunami.” Combined with a handful of other factors such as temperature, precipitation, an abundance of pollen producing male trees, and simultaneous grass allergens, allergy sufferers have been hit harder than usual.
Mold: Breathing in mold spores is another possible allergic trigger. Found both outdoors and indoors, certain molds can lead to symptoms such as post-nasal drip, asthma, watery eyes and more. Mold can thrive due to factors such as:
- Untreated water damage
- Moist environments
- High humidity
And since New York is certainly no stranger to humidity, with its monthly relative average staying higher than the 60% mark, this makes mold one important allergen to be aware of.
Dust mites: Pardon the pun, but this particular trigger really knows how to bug allergy sufferers. Found in house dust, these tiny bugs often settle in carpets, bedding, pillows, and upholstered furniture. Inhaling them can lead to asthma issues, wheezing, sinus pressure, and other symptoms that can even possibly worsen when the dust mites are uprooted.
Once again, watch out New York because dust mites thrive in areas of high humidity.
Find Relief at the Top Allergy Treatment Center in Brooklyn
If you are looking for an air of relief from allergies, asthma, or a sleep disorder, please contact our pulmonologist today. As a pulmonologist in New York for over 15 years, Dr. Mayank Shukla strives to help each child and adult he treats, feel better and breathe easier.
