It's already begun. That fine dust in the air is pollen. Noses and eyes are irritated. For some it is mild. Others suffer.

An allergy is an overreaction of our immune system to a foreign proteins. Those proteins can come in many forms. Some are air born. Some folks even get rashes and hives as  a reaction.

The video, above, shows a few ways to avoid Wyoming spring irritation. The list below from Wellness Wyoming shows some of the causes.

However, here are some of the more common allergens.

  • Pollen: Of all things that can cause an allergy, those resulting from pollen tend to be the most prolific. Pollen can be released from trees, grasses, weeds, and flowers throughout much of the year. While the main goal of pollen is to fertilize other plants, pollen that is inhaled can cause allergic reactions. It’s one of the more difficult allergens to avoid since pollen is virtually everywhere.
  • Dust: Dust is an accumulation of microscopic particles that become trapped in a home. A large portion of dust is comprised of dust mites. WebMD says about 20 million Americans are allergic to dust mites and their waste. Dust mites feed on skin from pets and humans. They tend to spike in numbers during warmer weather or if indoor temperatures are kept at 75 F or higher. Cleaning using a HEPA filter vacuum can keep dust at a minimum. Air purifiers also may be able to help.
  • Animal dander: Millions of pet owners have an allergy to their animals, says AAAAI. It’s not the fur of the animal that causes the trouble, but usually proteins found in a pet’s shed skin, saliva and urine that can cause problems. Keep in mind that there are no truly hypoallergenic breeds, and length of hair or fur will not eliminate allergies. An allergist may be able to suggest a course of treatment.
  • Mold: Tiny fungi with spores that float through the air, mold is yet another common allergen. The most common allergy-causing molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium. Preventing the environment needed for mold to grow can reduce allergic reactions. This primarily means airing out homes to keep them dry. Allergies can occur all year long and be bothersome. Working with an allergist and avoiding the most common triggers can help people feel more comfortable. @metro

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