Allergies are annoying and those of us who suffer from them do all we can to minimize their impact on our lives. Surprisingly, you might not even realize that some of your daily habits and routines are worsening your allergy symptoms. What are the unsuspecting culprits contributing to your allergy woes? Read on to learn more about the mistakes you might be making that are making you feel worse.

Here is a list of seemingly unusual suspects you should be aware of:

1. Produce that contains pollen-like proteins: If your allergies are acting up, it is possible you might have a problem with consuming certain fruits and vegetables, which is a condition known as oral-allergy syndrome (OAS). According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, it is estimated that up to a third of pollen allergy patients might be affected. The protein found on the surface of some raw produce such as apples, cantaloupe, and tomatoes can set off this allergy, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms include an itchy throat and mouth, as well as coughing. Essentially, your body thinks it is swallowing pollen.
2. Contact lenses: No, you do not need to give up your contact lenses and wear glasses forever, but on days when the pollen count is bad, you might want to opt for glasses instead. Why? Well, if your trap pollen in your eyes and it remains there, you are only going to experience more problems. Soft contact lenses, in particular, absorb airborne irritants more easily since they are more permeable. If you refuse to wear glasses and dislike hard lenses, you might want to consider daily disposable lenses.
3. Stress: It might seem unlikely, but stress actually puts people on edge to a point where they become more prone to allergy symptoms. A study in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology tracked the stress levels of 179 individuals with hay fever and, over the course of a month, found that 64% who reported higher stress levels also experienced more flare-ups.
4. Alcohol: If you have ever felt stuffed up after having a glass of red wine, you are not alone. Alcohol, especially red wine, can make allergies act up. Beer and wine both contain sulfites that many people are quite sensitive to, which can make allergies a lot worse.
5. Chlorine: While most people know that perfumes and scented candles can irritate allergies, many do not know that the scent of chlorine can be just as bad. Swimming in a chlorinated pool or even just being near one and trigger your sniffles and worsen your allergies. If you can smell it, it is in your body.

Contact the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia

The Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia is an Atlanta-based medical practice that provides comprehensive care and treatment for Atlanta area patients who suffer from a variety of sinonasal and upper respiratory conditions such as pulmonary conditions, childhood and adult-onset asthma, indoor and outdoor allergies, and chronic sinusitis.