Busting 5 Common Allergy Myths

More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies every year. Even though allergies are so common, there are still plenty of misunderstandings about allergies and allergic responses. And because of these misunderstandings, there are a lot of myths surrounding allergies that people believe.

Some of these include: Are there certain cities you should avoid during allergy season? Can you go outside when pollen counts are high? And what’s the deal with hypoallergenic pets?

Keep reading to get answers to these questions and more!

Myth #1: Dogs and Cats Can Be Hypoallergenic

While people often refer to specific breeds of cats and dogs as being hypoallergenic, there’s no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic animal. True, some breeds produce less dander than others, which can lower the chances of having an allergic reaction. But all dogs and cats produce dander, regardless of breed. And yes, that includes hairless cats and doodle breeds.

Myth #2: It’s Pet Hair that Causes Allergies

Pet dander refers to the dead skin cells pets slough off. For those with pet allergies, it’s not the pet hair you’re reacting to. It’s urine proteins, saliva, and dander that your pet sheds causing your stuffy nose and itchy eyes. That being said, dander and saliva often cling to pet hair. And if this hair accumulates around the home or your fur babies shed on upholstered furniture, it can aggravate allergies and worsen symptoms.

Myth #3: You Must Stay Inside During Outdoor Allergy Season

When you suffer from outdoor allergens, staying indoors does limit your exposure and can reduce allergy symptoms. But you don’t need to lock yourself inside for months on end. Instead, track local pollen counts. Pollen counts are highest in the morning, so if you’re trying to limit your exposure, switch up your routine. Plan outdoor activities for later in the day. This way, you don’t have to miss out on the outdoors in spring and summer!

Myth #4: Allergies Are Pretty Much the Same Regardless of Where You Live

Allergies are influenced by various factors, including location and local plants. For instance, mountain cedar allergies flare in the American southwest because that’s where the majority of mountain cedar grows. On a similar note, one of the worst cities for allergies, based on a report from the AAFA, is Scranton, Pennsylvania. Scranton is home to a plethora of trees, grasses, and weeds, which makes it a haven for allergy-inducing pollen.

Myth #5: One Allergy Is No More Common than Another

Although there are many allergens people react to, there are some that are more common than others. For instance, ragweed is a common plant that grows throughout the United States. Each plant can produce up to 1 billion pollen grains, and they’ve been known to travel up to 400 miles when kicked up by the wind. Seventy-five percent of people with any pollen allergy are also allergic to ragweed, making it one of the most common outdoor allergens.

Are You Ready to Bust Allergy Myths Once and for All?

If you suffer from environmental allergens and are ready for long-term relief, look no further than Wyndly. Our doctors can guide you in discovering what causes your allergies and develop a treatment plan that doesn’t require injections and weekly visits to the allergists. Take our quick online assessment today to see if Wyndly is right for you!