The immune system is the body’s natural defense mechanism. It is a complex network of cells and organs that attacks foreign substances like germs, pollen and toxins to protect the body from infection. Sometimes the immune system reacts (and may overreact) to otherwise harmless substances. Inhaled allergens such as pollen, animal dander, mold and insect droppings are some of the substances that can cause the immune system to go into overdrive causing allergy symptoms. 

Some of the most common allergens in our region of California include: 

• Animal dander – coming from dogs, cats and other animals inside or outside the home
• Dust Mites and other insects – microscopic organisms that often trigger allergic responses
• Pollen – produced by flowering and non-flowering plants and grasses; This inhaled allergen can cause both seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms.  
• Mold – spores can be airborne in the environment as well as on surfaces inside and outside the home. Our region’s mild winter temperatures allow mold to grow throughout the year.

When an allergen sensitive person comes into contact with an allergen, they experience allergy symptoms such as headaches, itchy eyes, runny nose, difficulty breathing, increased sinus infections, stuffy sensation in the ears and skin rashes. These symptoms and the side effects of over-the-counter medications used to treat them can significantly negatively impact one’s quality of life. Untreated allergies can lead to other medical conditions such as nasal polyps, sinus disease and asthma.