While it might seem like a refreshing rain shower would wash away environmental irritants and leave allergy sufferers with fewer symptoms, that's not always the case. In fact, many people report an increase in sniffles and sneezes during and after wet weather.
Interested in learning more about the link between precipitation and a shift in allergy symptoms? Read on to discover how the rain may be helping – or hurting – your allergies.
The bright side
For people who are primarily allergic to pollen, the rain can offer some much appreciated relief. According to Beyond Allergy, rain plays an important role in diluting and clearing away spores, which are responsible for triggering attacks in individuals with pollen allergies. People who cite rain as a positive force in the fight against allergy symptoms can experience temporary relief from their seasonal irritants for up to a few days post-precipitation.
The Huffington Post noted that in order for rain to reduce instead of enhance allergy symptoms, it needs to be heavy. This is because while severe rainstorms can cleanse the environment, light showers or otherwise damp weather can actually make allergy-related problems worse.
Rain brings allergens to life
In the most basic sense, rain aggravates allergy symptoms because it helps plants grow. Without rainy days, many allergy-inducing flowers, plants and trees don't get the hydration they require, and aren't able to survive. Regions with rainy climates, however, are more likely to be filled with natural triggers.
Moisture triggers mold allergies
One of the most common ways that rain negatively impacts allergy sufferers is by promoting mold growth. Healthline noted that because mold can grow anywhere that excess moisture is found, an aversion to it isn't technically considered a seasonal allergy. However, mold allergies can intensify from spring through fall, when most climates experience the brunt of their rainy seasons. The source noted that mold allergy symptoms are similar to those associated with viruses and other types of allergies, and include sneezing, congestion, coughing, itchy eyes and postnasal drip. As such, many people misdiagnose their mold allergies as colds, or write them off as pollen-related reactions.
Mold can develop inside and outside the home, which is why it's important to do a thorough inspection of your property if you suspect you may have a mold allergy. If you've noticed a spike in both wet weather and your symptoms, inspect all areas of your residence that could be susceptible to moisture. Healthline suggested checking beneath carpet or wall coverings, as these can easily hide even the most severe mold damage. It's also smart to inspect spaces that would sustain water damage in the event of a pipe leak.
Preparing for the precipitation
If you've determined that rain is to blame for the occasional exacerbation of your allergy symptoms, there are certain precautions you should take when the forecast is filled with showers. The simplest step you can take is to reduce the amount of time you spend outdoors before, during and after humid, rainy weather. When you do need to go outside, be sure to wash your hands, change your clothes and take a shower when you return home. If pollen spores are mainly to blame for your symptoms, it's also a good idea to check your area's pollen count before leaving home. This can give you an idea of how severe your symptoms could be.
When allergy season rolls around, keep your symptoms in check by using allergy control products. Medication, air purifiers and hypoallergenic bedding can help you limit allergens in your home, allowing you to stay healthy and happy no matter the weather.
