Avoiding Tick-Born Diseases During A Texas Summer

Although many tick species are harmless, some of them can seriously harm those who are bitten. Tick activity is often highest in the spring, summer, and fall. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Lyme disease, and other illnesses are spread by ticks in Houston and the surrounding metropolitan region. 

How to Avoid Tick-Borne Diseases This Summer!

It’s a relatively recent phenomenon in the United States, the rise of ticks and the illnesses they carry. Texas people should become knowledgeable about tick species, tick prevention, and how to manage a tick bite because ongoing research into the diagnosis and treatment of many of these diseases still lacks a foolproof vaccine or cure. Before heading outside, you should include tick protection for you and your loved ones in your routine. Remember:

• Ticks are little, especially those that have not yet matured into adults. A single field mouse might have up to 100 ticks eating on its body since they are so tiny. As a result, rats can transmit illnesses spread by ticks inside dwellings. It is critical to get in touch with an exterminator right away if you have a rat issue.
• Diseases spread by ticks gradually. The transmission of illness can be stopped by adequately removing a tick that is actively feeding. If you don’t have a tick-removal kit, delicately pinch the tick’s head with tweezers and draw it straight out.
• Ticks congregate near plants, shrubs, and exterior constructions in wet, shady locations. A certified pest control professional must treat these locations to practice tick management in your Houston, Texas, home. Tick danger will be much reduced as a result.
• Ticks do not enter your home voluntarily. They gain entry by joining themselves to a host, such as a human or a pet. The possibility of ticks entering your house will be decreased through tick management in your yard.
• Owners of pets are more likely to contract illnesses spread by ticks. Ensure your pets have tick management methods recommended by your veterinarian, and consider setting up a gated area for them. This will discourage wildlife and your pets from entering tall, grassy areas on the perimeter of your property where ticks like to hide. Ticks are brought into your yard by birds and animals with fur, not by you.
• If you have bird feeders, you can unwittingly raise your risk of contracting illnesses transmitted by ticks. The likelihood of a tick infestation will rise if any elements in your yard attract wildlife, such as unattended rubbish.
• Lastly, regularly check your body for ticks after being outside. Teach your kids how to check for ticks if you have kids properly.

You should use appropriate clothing and repellent that has received EPA approval. Use DEET-containing spray to protect yourself. Wear light-colored jeans and tuck them into your socks to avoid ticks if you’re heading into the woods. Even if you might appear foolish, you can escape certain ticks that way. If a tick crawls on you, it will be easy to spot with light-colored clothing.

Conroe Family Doctor Can Help You Treat Tick-Borne Illnesses.

If you’re experiencing an illness brought on by a tick bite, call Conroe Family Doctor for treatment. We can be reached at (936) 441-2012 for an appointment today!

Plant Pollens Allergens To Watch Out For During Spring In Texas

Texas has a vibrant ecology comprised of a range of local flora that brings beauty and variety to our landscape. However, with this variety comes a panoply of pollen and other allergies that can make allergy sufferers struggle to appreciate them. Spring is one of the most prominent times for seasonal allergies to appear. However, given the nature of our climate, the nature of these allergens will continue to change throughout the year. All American Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology present this guide of the worst offenders of Texas pollen producers to help allergy sufferers prepare.

Plant Pollens Allergens To Watch Out For During Spring In Texas

While the worst pollen encounters typically occur outside our homes, they commonly follow us inside. Pollen can hitch a ride on our skin and clothes, be brought in by pets, and slip in through poorly filtered ventilation and air conditioning systems. Even the most carefully maintained homes cannot prevent the invasion of many kinds of pollen. Every time the door is opened, a new gust of pollen accompanies the brief gust of air that enters the home. The below list of allergens represents those that are nearly inescapable in any Texas home.

Pollens

The most common allergens in Texas are pollens released by our local fauna.

• Ash, Elm, Mulberry, Oak, Pecan, & Sycamore Trees – April represents the beginning of the multiple trees pollen season. These trees produce copious amounts of pollen through April and May, with the season passing in June as summer arrives.
• Birch Trees & Cottonwood – These trees’ pollen season is already underway. It began in March and will persist through May.
• Juniper & Cedar – Juniper and Cedar get their start in February but continue their pollen assault straight through May.
• Mesquite & Pine – Mesquite and Pine trees produce pollen in March and persist through April.

Grass and Weeds

May is the last month of spring, but it also represents the beginning of summer pollinators. When May arrives, you must contend with various grasses, weeds, and Black Walnut trees. The other pollinators that get their start in May and persist through the summer include:

• Bahia Grass
• Bermuda Grass
• Kentucky Bluegrass
• Meadow Fescue Grass
• Rye Grass
• Sorrel
• Dock
• Plantain

If you suffer from allergies, it’s time to start preparing yourself to address the worst of your symptoms.

Seasonal Allergies With All American Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, our team is here to help you find effective ways of easing or managing your symptoms. Multiple approaches are available, and we’ll help you find the best treatment for you and your lifestyle. Contact our office by calling (210) 226-3500 and scheduling an appointment in San Antonio, TX. You’ll meet with Dr. Charles Calais, DO, or another team member and begin working on a plan for managing your symptoms during the upcoming allergy season! We’re eager to help you enjoy the beauty of spring in the Lone Star State, so don’t wait to call!