What to Expect, What to Avoid and Solutions to Treat Summer Asthma & Allergies

MIAMI, FL – June 17, 2013 – Summer is a season of warm weather and vacation fun that many people enjoy, but for some summertime means struggling with asthma and allergies.  The fully bloomed trees and green grass may be nice to look at, but the pollen they harbor can bring allergy sufferers misery during the summer months. The high temperatures during this time can also trigger asthma.

Summer Asthma- High temperatures cause an increase in air moisture, which can encourage more mold, pollutants and dust mites to thrive.  When the weather is hot, your metabolism and body temperature increase, meaning your body will need to work harder and will need more oxygen. Humid air is heavier than dry air, which can also make breathing a challenge. It’s important to learn to manage your asthma and use the proper medication as prescribed by an allergist or asthma specialist.

Summer Allergies-

• Grass- It is not the grass itself, but the pollen it contains that causes allergy reactions. In someone with allergies, when pollen is breathed in, the immune system responds by releasing histamine and other chemicals that can spark a variety of allergy systems. Some of the biggest grass pollen culprits include: Bermuda, Johnson, Timothy, Orchard and Sweet Vernal grass.  It’s important to keep your grass well maintained.  Check the pollen levels and stay indoors when counts are high. Plan outdoor activities for late afternoon when pollen is often lower and take a shower with very hot water after being outdoors.
• Sunscreen- Sunscreen allergies not very common, especially since most of the available sunscreens are hypoallergenic. However, reactions can happen.  It can be a blocking agent or the fragrances. It can also be caused by the parabens, which are chemicals used as preservatives.  Read the labels before you apply.
• Insects- Stinging insects, such as bees, wasps and yellow jackets, and biting insects such as mosquitoes, are more active during the summer months, and can cause allergic reactions in certain people. Most people experience localized pain, itching and swelling as a result of being stung or bitten. However, some people experience more severe symptoms, including hives and difficulty breathing.  Make sure to spray on insect repellent before going outdoors.
• Chlorine Reaction- Swimming in pool may cause you to have a chlorine reaction, such as itchy, red skin bumps or hives. Chlorine reacts with your skin cells, leaving a layer of chlorine on the surface of your skin. Chlorine may indirectly contribute to allergies by irritating and sensitizing the respiratory tract. Studies have suggested that frequent swimming in chlorinated pools and exposure to cleaning products containing chlorine may increase the risk of developing asthma and other respiratory allergies, both in adolescents and in adults. Make to wash off the chlorine after swimming.

“As Benjamin Franklin once said: ‘An ounce of preventions is worth a pound of cure;’ Have fun this Summer, but be allergy prepared,” said Dr. Philip C. Mirmelli.

Don’t let asthma or allergies spoil your summer activities, visit one of Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care’s 18 centers to set up your treatment plan to breathe easier. For more information, please visit www.florida-allergy.com or call 1-877-4-ALLERGY.

About Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care

Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care has been in business for more than 38 years and has board certified physicians with extensive experience in treating both adults and children. FCAAC has 18 centers throughout South Florida, serving communities in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. The Centers specialize in the testing and treatment of adults and children who suffer from allergies, asthma and other disorders of the immune system. Among the most common allergies treated are allergic skin diseases, food, drug and pet allergies. Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care Research conducts clinical trials on new medications. The goal of the FCAAC team is to provide professional and quality care resulting in total patient satisfaction.

Editor’s Note: If you would be interested in interviewing Dr. Mirmelli, please let us know.

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Bristol Public Relations

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