Ragweed Pollen
Allentown, Pennsylvania, is a city where many residents often suffer from Ragweed Pollen allergies. The allergen causing this allergic reaction is ragweed pollen, a tiny yellowish-green flower that grows ubiquitously in rural fields, along roadsides, and in vacant lots across Allentown. Symptoms of a ragweed pollen allergy typically include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watering eyes, and in more severe cases, can lead to asthma attacks. These symptoms are particularly harmful to the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems. The ragweed pollen allergy becomes particularly pervasive in late summer through to the fall, generally from August to November when the plant blooms and releases pollen into the air. Pollen counts are especially high on warm, windy, and dry days. The industrial past of Allentown, with large open spaces now covered with weeds, offers the perfect conditions for ragweed to flourish. Therefore, residents and visitors with a sensitivity to ragweed pollen are advised to take appropriate precautions during this time.
Maple Tree Pollen
In Allentown, Pennsylvania, a common allergen that affects many individuals is the Maple Tree Pollen. This small city is dotted with beautiful Maple trees that offer shade and add to the city's aesthetic beauty. However, during the blooming season, the Maple trees release pollen into the air, which can trigger an allergic reaction for some individuals. Certain symptoms associated with Maple Tree Pollen allergy include itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. While this allergy can affect anyone, it is more dangerous for people with respiratory conditions like asthma and elderly individuals. Typically, these allergies flare up during the tree's pollination season, which is mainly in early spring and late summer. Residents and visitors to Allentown during these times may want to take precautionary measures, such as keeping windows closed, wearing sunglasses outdoors, and washing hands regularly to avoid an allergic reaction.
Dust Mites
Allergy to dust mites is a commonly observed condition in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dust mites are microscopic, insect-like pests that generate allergens. These allergens are proteins that can cause allergic reactions and asthma in people with a sensitive immune system. The symptoms of dust mite allergy can range from sneezing, a runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, nasal congestion, to a persistent cough, and in severe cases, chest tightness and difficulty in breathing. This type of allergy is especially dangerous to people with asthma or respiratory conditions, and the elderly or young children with undeveloped or weakened immune systems.
Unlike pollen allergies, dust mite allergies do not have a specific season and can cause year-round symptoms. However, they may worsen during humid and rainy seasons when dust mites multiply more quickly. Allentown has a humid continental climate, which along with its urbanization and indoor heating systems, can create the warm, humid conditions dust mites thrive in. Therefore, this allergen is quite prevalent in Allentown, causing symptoms in residents susceptible to this type of allergy. It is also worth noting that dust mites feed on human skin flakes and are especially numerous in mattresses, bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpets, making homes a major source of this allergen.
Mold Spores
In the city of Allentown, Pennsylvania, one common allergen that residents may encounter is mold spores. This microscopic fungus thrives in damp, humid conditions and these spores can be present indoors and outdoors. Allentown, with its humid continental climate, coupled with its average rainfall well above the national average, creates an optimum breeding ground for mold. Symptoms of a mold spore allergy can include sneezing, itching, red or watery eyes, wheezing, and in some cases, even asthma attacks. People with a mold spore allergy may notice symptoms year-round, but they often worsen in damp and rainy months, especially in the fall season when decaying leaves provide ample organic matter for molds. This allergy can be particularly dangerous for those with compromised immune systems, respiratory conditions, or those who suffer from chronic sinus issues. Therefore, residents of Allentown, particularly those who are susceptible, should be mindful of the potential for mold spore exposure.