If you find yourself sniffling or having breathing problems this summer, it might not be due to a cold. Instead, seasonal humidity may be causing your allergies to flare up. Fortunately, by understanding how excess moisture in the air can impact your immune health, you can take steps to minimize your risks and achieve relief. As a leading allergist of West Chester, OH, Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D. explains how this weather can cause symptoms and what you can do about it.

Why Do Allergies Get Worse in Humid Weather?

Thriving Allergens

With extra moisture in the air, mold, dust mites, and other common allergens can thrive. If humidity is causing moisture problems in your home, you’re at risk of breathing in mold spores and dust mites that can trigger allergy flare-ups. Outdoors, the heavier, moist air can trap pollutants and pollen, reducing the overall air quality. Under these conditions, it can be tougher for people with asthma and allergies to breathe.

Restricted Breathing

If your allergies cause breathing problems—such as wheezing and congestion—humidity may make the problem worse. As the American Lung Association explains, inhaling hot, humid air can cause the airways to constrict, making it harder for people to get the oxygen they need. This reaction is particularly problematic among individuals who have asthma.

How Can You Prevent Flare-Ups?

Although you may not be able to control the humidity outside, there are many things you can do to improve your indoor environment. For example, you can use a dehumidifier in your home to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent mold and dust mite growth. Also, take care of any existing moisture problems in your house—such as leaks or unsealed windows—that may contribute to allergen problems.

If you have problems controlling your symptoms, talking to an allergist can help. These specialists can perform allergy testing to determine what substances trigger flare-ups. These doctors can also provide allergy shots to slowly build up your immunity to certain allergens. If you have asthma symptoms, talk to your allergist about how maintenance and rescue inhalers can help improve your breathing. In many cases, these medications can make breathing easier when you’re outside in humid weather.

When you need better control over your allergies or asthma symptoms, turn to the trusted services of Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D. Located in West Chester, OH, this clinic can perform comprehensive testing to see what’s behind your flare-ups. Dr. Ahmad will then help you manage your symptoms through personalized allergy and asthma treatment plans. Visit the practice online to learn more about the ways this allergist can help improve your quality of life. To schedule a convenient appointment, call (513) 777-7097.