What are Everyday Allergies Called?
Everyday allergies, those experienced regularly throughout the year, are often called perennial allergies. These allergies are triggered by indoor allergens, substances that provoke an allergic reaction, present year-round, such as house dust. Unlike seasonal allergies (hay fever), which occur during specific pollen seasons, perennial allergies cause persistent symptoms.
Perennial allergies can manifest in various ways, impacting different parts of the body. Some common examples include:
- Perennial allergic rhinitis: This affects the nose, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. The Mayo Clinic describes these symptoms clearly in their article on allergies. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497
- Perennial eye allergies: These cause itchy, watery, or red eyes. Seattle Children's explains how house dust is a common year-round trigger for this type of allergy. https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/eye-allergy/
- Pet allergies: These are perennial allergies triggered by pet dander, saliva, or urine. Cleveland Clinic offers information on managing these allergies. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17702-pet-allergies
- Food allergies: While some food allergies might be triggered by seasonal produce, many common food allergies are experienced year-round. The FDA provides comprehensive information on food allergies. https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/food-allergies-what-you-need-know
The Merck Manual provides further insight into year-round allergies and their management. https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/immune-disorders/allergic-reactions-and-other-hypersensitivity-disorders/year-round-allergies
These allergies are characterized by the constant presence of triggering allergens in the environment. Daily antihistamines can help manage symptoms, as noted in MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000549.htm