With the onset of fall, new seasons of sports are starting up. Unfortunately, the change weather also means new pollens are taking flight and can aggravate athletes. Many associate allergies with the spring, since many plants are blooming around that time. However, each individual has a unique reaction to pollen counts and may experience seasonal allergies at different points throughout the year. If you are planning on partaking in a fall sport, make a point to address your allergies before they affect your performance.
Athletes may also be more prone to experience seasonal allergies, as they have a greater exposure to pollens when they engage in outdoor sports. Exercise also requires an increased ventilation; therefore, a higher number of allergens are introduced to the athlete’s system. For individuals affected by allergies, their performance may be suboptimal due to the symptoms associated with aggravated allergies.
One common reaction caused by allergies is nasal congestion, which can have an impact on an individual’s ability to perform athletically for a prolonged period of time. Exercise can also exacerbate symptoms of asthma, which include wheezing, tightness, coughing, chest pain and shortness in breath. Even individuals who do not typically suffer from asthma can be victim of exercise-induced asthma.
In order to prepare for the fall sport season, consult with an allergist. You doctor will perform an allergy test to determine your reaction to various allergens. If your test shows you have a positive reaction to allergens, an allergy treatment plan will be created to help manage or cure your symptoms. Located in Tyler, our allergy clinic offers personalized treatments based on the latest advances in allergy treatment techniques. Options include medication, non-pharmacologic therapy and immunotherapy. This fall, don’t let allergies bring down your game. To learn more about your treatment options, we welcome you to call our team at [phone1 link=”true”].