Ashford Clinic Blog
Should I Keep Taking Allergy Meds in the Summer?
Summer is almost officially here and it might seem like you can finally stop taking your allergy medication. After all, seasonal allergies are mostly just in the spring, right? Well, that’s not always the case. Let’s talk about why!
Before deciding to stop taking your allergy medication, are you certain what it is that’s causing the allergy symptoms in the first place? While some pollen might only be around in the spring, others are just getting started. Knowing what you’re actually allergic to will help inform when and for how long you need to keep taking those allergy medications.
The most common sources of summer pollen allergies are grasses. Some of the most common types include:
- Bermuda
- Fescue
- Johnson
- Kentucky Blue
- Rye
- Timothy
All of these grasses can contribute to summer pollen counts. If grass pollen is a problem for you, limit your time outdoors when you can. Changing clothing when you come inside and showering before bedtime can also help reduce pollen getting inside.
Mold is another summer allergy culprit, and it tends to be more of a problem from July through the fall. Higher humidity and temperatures combine to make excellent breeding grounds for mold, along with slow-moving water sources like HVAC condensation. Mold spores are everywhere, but damp warm conditions are particularly good for helping them to thrive.
If indoor humidity levels are getting too high, a dehumidifier can help. Good airflow can also help you combat mold growth, along with making sure that towels are hung up to dry, and damp clothes aren’t left to pile up.
The most important factor in determining whether to continue taking your allergy medication is knowing what you’re allergic to in the first place. If you’re not sure, talk to your doctor about getting tested for allergies. From there, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about when to continue or stop using your allergy medications.
