As we take a turn into the spring of 2023, many will begin to spend more time outside as the days become longer and the weather warmer. As many of us know, along with this warmer weather, comes the dreaded period of seasonal allergy season. Itchy eyes, sneezing, and a host of other side effects quickly become the norm for many as spring rolls around. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26% of adults and 19% of children show signs of seasonal allergies. Unfortunately, for those afflicted by seasonal allergies, allergy season appears to be getting worse. 

According to a study conducted by the National Phenology Network, spring in many areas of the U.S., specifically in the Southeast, is coming earlier. An early spring means that plants have more time to release allergy-inducing pollen and other substances in the air. Furthermore, climate change has continued to worsen the North American pollen seasons with no indication of slowing down. With allergy season getting longer and more intense, it is important to take some necessary steps to fight back against the allergens that will be coming into our homes and offices. 

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies are caused by an immune system’s reaction to specific types of allergens that are present at specific times of the year. The leading causes of seasonal allergies that often become present in the spring are:

1. Pollen: This common allergen is produced by trees, grasses, and weeds. When these plants release pollen during the spring, it can trigger aggressive allergic reactions in many people. 
2. Mold: Mold spores are another leading culprit of seasonal allergies. 
3. Dust Mites: Although dust mites are usually present year-round, their numbers tend to increase during the spring and summer months when humidity levels rise. 
4. Pet Dander: People who are allergic to pet dander may experience worsening allergies in the spring when animals tend to shed more fur in preparation for the warmer months ahead. 

It’s important to note that a combination of these sources can cause seasonal allergies, and the severity of symptoms often varies from individual to individual. The severity of reactions may differ but symptoms often include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, itchy or watery eyes, scratchy throat, and coughing. Although these symptoms may be mild for some, for others they can greatly interfere with daily life and make allergy season the most dreaded time of year. It can cause individuals in the workplace to lose productivity and even miss work to try to recover from their symptoms.

With spring and summer on the immediate horizon, it is best to arm yourself with tools to help prevent seasonal allergies as you begin to spend more time on the go. WYND Essential is a portable personal air purifier you can take with you on the go. The WYND Essential is about the size of a water bottle so you can utilize it on your everyday commute to work, in your bedroom, small office and many other places. The device protects against viruses, bacteria, mold, and other allergens. With the WYND Essential at your disposal, you can take the first step in defending yourself against seasonal allergies. 

Common Allergens in the Home

Although the biggest offenders of seasonal allergies such as pollen and mold spores are found outside, they still can find their way into your home. Outdoor allergens can find their way into your home through open windows and doors, being brought in by clothing worn outdoors, sticking to carpets and upholstery, and even coming from your favorite indoor plants. Once these allergens are present in your indoor space, they can be circulated throughout your air conditioning and heating systems and be very difficult to remove. 

Even by taking the steps necessary to minimize the intrusion of outdoor allergens, there are still an abundant amount of indoor allergens that can trigger symptoms. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, some of the primary sources of indoor allergens that can be found in your home are:

• Wall-to-Wall Carpet
• Soft Furniture
• Indoor Plants
• Pets
• Pillows and Bedding

Trying to take control of allergens within your home can be a costly and laborious process including constant cleaning, vacuuming, buying allergen-resistant furniture coverings, and much more. However, investing in a quality air filtration system can save you money and the headaches of constant cleaning. The WYND Max - Smart Room Air Purifier can remove germs, allergens, dander, smog, and other pollutants in any room up to 1,200 square feet. 

By using WYND’s home air purification systems, you can battle back against these seasonal allergens entering your home and spend more time enjoying, rather than dreading the spring. 

How to Fight Allergens in the Workplace 

There are many ways indoor air quality can be monitored and improved in the workplace to help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms for employees. WYND offers many different solutions to help maximize the indoor air quality in your space. Whether it be a conference room, hotel room, or small office, WYND has the best-in-class indoor air quality products to keep allergens at bay. The WYND Nova is an active indoor air quality management solution specifically designed for workspaces such as conference and meeting rooms. 

Being armed with the right technology to manage indoor air quality in your workspace will help those employees that are most affected by seasonal allergies to remain productive and remain in the office. If you are not sure about what solution is best for you, contact our team today and we would be happy to assist you this spring season.