Test Your Knowledge

Allergic rhinitis is usually triggered when an allergic individual comes into contact with proteins found in certain airborne particles. These proteins can come from a variety of sources, but usually include:

• Pollen. Small, powdery grains of flowering plants that can easily become airborne. These are most often produced by trees, grass and weeds.
  
  

  

• Mold and mildew. Tiny fungus spores that can become airborne. These often thrive outdoors in soil, vegetation and rotting wood. They can be found indoors as well, especially in damp areas, basements and bathrooms.
  
  

  

• Dust mites. Microscopic insects that inhabit household dust. They are often found indoors where there is less air circulation and on surfaces like carpets, bedding and stuffed animals.
  
  
• Animal dander. Tiny scales or particles from an animal’s skin. These very often come from a dog or cat.
  
  
• Cockroach debris. Droppings, eggs, saliva and small pieces of outer shell of cockroaches. These can be found indoors, even if an infestation of live pests is not currently a problem.

Most people are allergic to the proteins found in pollens and molds – which can easily become airborne and spread by the wind (like most allergic rhinitis allergens). When these allergens are inhaled (touching the lining of the inner nose), an allergic reaction is triggered. Although less common, reactions can also be triggered when the allergen is ingested (eaten) or comes in direct contact with the skin.

Because the airborne levels of pollen and mold change with the seasons, allergic individuals are more likely to experience symptoms during specific times of the year. Rhinitis allergies usually flare up in the spring when plants begin to bloom and release pollen. Some trees begin to pollinate as early as January in the southern United States and April in the northern states. By late spring, grasses are pollinating – followed by weeds in the summer and fall. Warmer climates will see outdoor mold spore growth peak by midsummer.

People susceptible to indoor molds, dust mites and pet dander often suffer allergy symptoms throughout the year.