Summer allergy symptoms that affect the respiratory tract are common to a few sources, namely grass pollens and leaf molds. Contrary to popular belief, most people are not allergic to the flowering or fruit-producing plants that are active in summertime. The plant allergens that cause hay fever breathing problems are those contained in the small, light, abundant pollen granules and fungal spores of summer grasses and decaying leaves. If allergic reactions persist through other seasons, multiple seasonal allergies or perennial allergies are likely responsible.
Itching
The body’s allergic reaction to grass or mold allergens is a release of histamines into the bloodstream. Histamines create an inflammatory condition of the mucous membranes, of which itching is one sign. As MayoClinic.com notes, hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, can cause itchy eyes, nose, mouth and throat.
Swollen Eyes
Itching and inflammation in the eyes may progress to other allergy symptoms during summer grass season or when leaves are on the ground in certain temperatures. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists swollen eyelids as a sign of an allergic reaction to pollen or mold. Swelling in the eye area can also lead to facial pressure or pain and headaches.
Undereye Circles
Swelling indicates an increase in the amount of blood sent to the sinus area by a malfunctioning immune system. Increased blood flow between the nose and eyes may result in dark circles beneath the eyes, the UM Medical Center notes. These are also known as allergic reaction shiners.
Breathing Problems
As swelling compresses the nasal and sinus passages, and histamines direct fluids into the airways, breathing problems begin. Nasal allergy symptoms recorded by the Cleveland Clinic include a runny or stuffy nose and sneezing. The swelling and nasal congestion act to keep more allergens out of the body, while sneezing and mucus drainage are meant to expel those that are already inside.
A postnasal drip can result from fluid accumulation in the sinuses, transferring this mucus to the throat. Continued exposure to the grass pollen or leaf mold spores that brought on the initial hay fever symptoms may increase respiratory distress to the point that breathing problems interfere with sleep and daily activities.
Throat Symptoms
Histamine-induced itching and inflammation, as well as the excess mucus from postnasal drip, can irritate the throat. Summer temperatures or dry, indoor, air-conditioned environments may exacerbate this condition. The UM Medical Center adds a sore throat and dry cough to the list of hay fever symptoms that affect the respiratory system.
