How to Tell the Difference Between Allergies and Sensitivities
Though allergies and sensitivities may cause similar symptoms, they originate from very different biological processes and require distinct management strategies. Being able to tell them apart, especially when environmental factors like dust, mold or pollen are involved, can make a big difference in how you respond to and reduce your discomfort. Defining Allergies Allergies occur…
Is Allergy Season Getting Worse in Oregon?
If you feel like your seasonal allergies are hitting harder and lasting longer in Oregon than they used to, you’re not alone. Some Oregonians report more intense symptoms that last longer, year over year. But is it just your imagination, or is allergy season getting worse? Some weather experts suggest that the allergy season is…
About the Grass Seed Capital of the World and How it Impacts Allergies
Nestled between the Coast Range and the Cascade Mountains in Oregon, the Willamette Valley is a productive agricultural region. As the largest producer of cool-season grass seed in the world, it has earned the title as the Grass Seed Capital of the World. The area produces almost two-thirds of the total production of cool-season grasses…
Spring Allergy Season Is Coming: Should You Start Immunotherapy Now?
Spring is finally here! Along with all the benefits of spring, like the warmer weather, flowers and Salem Saturday Market, spring also brings one downside—allergies. Spring allergies, or hay fever, affect between 40 and 60 million Americans. For some, hay fever may only cause the occasional sneeze. However, for others, it can lead to severe…
Ways to Manage Pet Allergies at Home
If you’re dealing with a pet allergy, you are not alone. Up to 30% of people in the U.S. are allergic to cats or dogs. Symptoms of pet allergies include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, coughing and hives. Fortunately, there are several steps you can…
Study Shows Light Pollution Can Extend Allergy Season
Researchers are no longer in the dark about the effects of artificial light sources on trees and woody plants. Evidence shows that the bright lights of big cities are altering urban plants’ normal seasonal rhythms, leading to earlier and longer allergy seasons and exacerbating everything from allergies to asthma to other breathing issues. Details of…
How to Combat Dry Eyes From Allergies
Dry, itchy eyes are an unfortunate side effect of allergy season. When you encounter irritants like pollen, dust mites, pet dander or other substances you’re sensitive to, your immune system overreacts and releases histamine. Histamine is a chemical in your body that triggers the allergy inflammation responsible for dry, red or itchy eyes. Let’s take…
Ways To Manage Pet Allergies at Home
If you’re dealing with a pet allergy, you are not alone. Up to 30% of people in the U.S. are allergic to cats or dogs. Symptoms of pet allergies include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, coughing and hives. There are several steps at home you…
Understanding Cold vs. Allergy Symptoms: How to Tell the Difference
It’s all too easy to confuse a cold with seasonal allergies, especially when dealing with symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose and congestion. But knowing whether you’re dealing with a cold or an allergy can help you get the right treatment and feel better sooner. Let’s look at how you can tell the difference and…
Your Cozy Abode Might Be Fueling Your Allergies This Winter
Does cold winter weather have you hunkering down at home in hibernation mode? If so, you’re probably tempted to turn the thermostat way up, which can hurt more than just your finances (hello, huge heating bill)—it can also harm your health. How Dry Heat Contributes to Allergy and Sinus Issues Cranking up the heat can…
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