Allergy Myths

Myth #1: Moving to Arizona will cure my allergies.
Unfortunately, moving to a new location will probably not help your allergies very much. Although the deserts of the American Southwest may lack ragweed and maple trees, other plants grow there that produce pollen. People who are sensitive to some pollens may also become sensitive to others found in a new environment.

Myth #2: Hay fever is caused by hay.
The popular term "hay fever" is considered a misnomer because the condition is not caused by hay, nor is it a fever. The term is used to describe congested sinuses, coughing, runny nose, sneezing, breathing difficulties and other symptoms caused by any plants that pollinate or molds that produce spores. Symptoms typically occur in the spring, summer and fall months.

Myth #3: Short haired pets don't cause allergies.
The truth is, an animal's fur--including its length--is not the culprit in allergies. The real culprit is a protein produced by glands in the animal's skin or in their saliva. Cats often cause more allergy problems than dogs simply because they tend to lick their fur a lot, spreading the protein onto their coats. If you are allergic to furry pets, consider adopting one of these hairless friends: fish, iguanas or snakes.

Myth #4: Pollen from flowers is a leading cause of allergies.
Ironically, some of the most feared plants--the brightly flowering varieties--are the least likely to trigger an allergic response. Pollen from roses and many other fragrant, colorful flowers tends to be heavy, waxy and sticky, making it less likely to become airborne. These pollens are not spread by the wind. Instead, insects transport pollen from flower to flower. Therefore, allergies to these plants are relatively uncommon--unless you are a florist or a gardener who is exposed to them frequently.

Myth #5: Allergies are psychosomatic.
Allergies may affect your nose, but that doesn't mean they're "all in your head." An allergy is a real medical condition involving your immune system's hyper-reactivity to a foreign substance. Stress or emotions may bring on or worsen symptoms--or your symptoms may cause you to feel embarrassed or discouraged--but emotions don't cause allergies. Also, you also can not pass your allergies on to a friend, because they're not contagious.

Myth #6: You can outgrow your allergies.
Most people grow into an allergy, not out of it. Although some people can become less sensitive to certain substances simply by avoiding them, it is nearly impossible to avoid all exposure to certain pollens, molds and dust. Year after year of repeated exposure to these allergens can cause chronic symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Myth #7: Frequent exposure to pollen can help you build up immunity to it.
Regularly scheduled, repeated exposure to small amounts of an allergen--as with allergy shots--can lead to immunity. But infrequent and erratic exposure does not lead to immunity--instead, it increases the likelihood that you will become sensitized to the allergen. With allergy shots (called immunotherapy), exposure to the allergen is closely regulated and given on a scheduled basis, leading to the production of blocking antibodies (called IgG antibodies) and a decrease in the level of allergic or IgE-mediated antibodies.

Myth #8: I should save my prescription allergy medication for the days I am suffering most.
Antihistamines work best when taken according to the treatment plan your allergist or health care provider has given you. This is especially true for prescribed nasal steroid sprays, which become virtually ineffective if only taken on an as needed basis.

Myth #9: I won't build up a resistance to decongestant nasal sprays.
Certain decongestant nasal sprays should not be taken longer than three days at a time to avoid a "rebound effect," meaning your nasal congestion may worsen with prolonged use.

Myth #10: Because I am allergic to something, my kids will be too.
The tendency to develop allergies does tend to run in families, but other factors come into play as well. Sometimes people develop allergies when neither parent has them. Many experts also believe that early exposure to a potential allergen may make a person more likely to develop an allergy to it later in life.