Mesquite is a type of wood that is used for smoking various foods—very common in the South for barbeque. While most may not realize, mesquite pollen can trigger allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy throat, contact dermatitis, and even asthma flare-ups. Mesquite tree pollen can have different types of smells depending on the species, but each can become bothersome to mesquite pollen allergy sufferers. This is what you need to know to help protect yourself.
Mesquite trees are incredibly popular thanks to their use in cooking as well as in producing aromatic bonfires. However, they are also known for the quantity of pollen they produce. Mesquite tree pollen is released in waves during the burning or smoking processes and carries easily on the wind. As such, it is very easy for everyone in the vicinity to experience at least some exposure to the substance as they go about their daily lives. Even newly growing mesquite trees can produce enough pollen to trigger severe mesquite pollen allergies. As such, finding ways to reduce your exposure to this substance is key.
For one, you may find it beneficial to watch what you eat. While summer is a time known for its delicious smokey barbecue, eating items cooked using mesquite can be hazardous if you’re sensitive to mesquite pollen. Because of this, consider asking at restaurants or local cookouts whether the chef used mesquite in their cooking. If they are unsure, you may be better off avoiding these menu items entirely.
Keeping these particles out of your home also helps mitigate your mesquite pollen allergies. Though it is impossible to completely eliminate mesquite tree pollen from your environment, reducing it can prevent frequent flareups and make the ones you do have less severe. So consider changing out of your clothing upon getting home. This allows you to remove any particles attached to your outfit and prevent them from spreading to other surfaces. You can also dust your home and replace your air filters more often.
Contact Us For an Appointment
At Allergy & ENT Associates, it is important to us that Houston locals feel healthy and safe during high-pollen seasons. We believe that you should be able to go about your life, regardless of the amount of mesquite tree pollen in the air. As such, our experts have set out to provide the best treatment possible for mesquite tree allergy symptoms. If you would like more information about our treatments in Houston, Texas, or to schedule an appointment, please call our central appointment desk at (713) 697-4687.
