Summer Allergies Can Change Your Appearance — Dramatically

We’re all familiar with the most common symptoms of allergies, like a runny nose, sneezing and red eyes. Some people seem to fare much worse when it comes to summertime allergies, appearing as if they lost a match to a UFC fighter.

Severe symptoms during the summer can be as bad as peak season in the spring and fall. They’re not limited to the typical sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes. Cosmetic symptoms like black eyes and lines across the nose are more common than you might think.

Of course, allergies can appear at any age and during any time of the year, even if you’ve never suffered from them. Think about visiting one of our board-certified allergists if you happen to have these additional symptoms to go along with your sniffles.

• Mouth Breathing: Chronic mouth breathing can be caused by allergic rhinitis and its severe nasal congestion. Severe cases can lead to the development of a high palate, an overbite and an elevated upper lip. Dental braces may be required for some teens with allergic rhinitis.Allergic “Shiner: Dark circles may appear under the eyes as a result of discoloration and swelling from the small blood vessels beneath the skin.
• Allergic Face: It’s possible that nasal allergies can cause swelling of the adenoids, or lymph nodes that line the back of the throat and behind the nose. A tired and droopy appearance is the result.
• Nasal Crease: Usually the result of rubbing the nose upward to relieve nasal itching and congestion, this is a line that can appear across the nose’s bridge.
• Allergic “Shiner: Dark circles may appear under the eyes as a result of discoloration and swelling from the small blood vessels beneath the skin.

Insect stings, mold and pollen allergies are common causes of symptoms during the summer. Surprisingly, fresh produce like apples, melons, and celery can produce symptoms. Common proteins found in both pollen and raw fruits, fresh vegetables and some tree nuts are the cause.

It’s also possible to mistake summer allergies for colds or food intolerance. If your symptoms last longer than two weeks you should definitely see on of our allergists for testing, diagnosis and treatment.

You should also speak with an allergist before you resort to over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays for long-term relief.