Use the summer allergies tip sheet as:
 Material you can distribute to local media (sample cover email below)
 Content to upload to your website and/or newsletter
 Informational flyer for patients/public
Cover Email to Media Outlets
Subject: The Ugly Truth About Summer Allergies
Dear [INSERT REPORTER’S NAME],
Summertime should be fun for everyone, but warm weather can create a “hot mess” for those with
allergies and asthma.
To help allergy sufferers enjoy picnics and barbecues while looking their best, I’ve included some tips in
the press release below, courtesy of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
As a local allergist who specializes in treating allergy and asthma, I would be happy to speak with you
about how allergy sufferers can avoid the summer triggers that may give them the appearance of black
eyes or looking tired and rundown. I’m available by phone [INSERT PHONE NUMBER] or email [INSERT
EMAIL].
Thank you for your time,
[INSERT NAME]
[INSERT PRACTICE]
The Ugly Truth about Summer Allergies
Seasonal allergies can cause unwanted appearance changes
[INSERT YOUR CITY, STATE] [INSERT DATE] – As if a runny nose and red eyes weren’t enough to ruin
your warm weather look, summer allergies can bestow even more than you’ve bargained for this year.
In fact, some unusual symptoms can leave you looking like you lost a round in a boxing ring.
“Allergy sufferers may wrongly think that once spring is over, they won’t have allergy symptoms,” said
allergist [INSERT NAME, INSERT PRACTICE]. “Unfortunately, that’s not true. Summer often brings a
whole new set of symptoms from allergens such as ragweed, grass pollens and mold spores. In addition
to sneezing and watery eyes, allergies sometimes cause black eyes, lines across the nose and other
cosmetic symptoms.”
Even if you’ve never before had allergies, they can suddenly strike at any age and time of year. You
might want to consider visiting your board-certified allergist if these undesirable signs accompany your
sniffle and sneeze.

Allergic Shiner: Dark circles under the eyes which are due to swelling and discoloration from
congestion of small blood vessels beneath the skin in the delicate eye area.

Allergic (adenoidal) Face: Nasal allergies may promote swelling of the adenoids (lymph tissue
that lines the back of the throat and extends behind the nose). This results in a tired and droopy
appearance in your face.

Nasal Crease: This is a line which can appear across the bridge of the nose usually the result of
rubbing the nose upward to relieve nasal congestion and itching.

Mouth Breathing: Cases of hay fever with severe nasal congestion can result in chronic mouth
breathing, associated with the development of a high, arched palate, an elevated upper lip, and
an overbite. Teens with allergic rhinitis might need braces to correct dental issues.
According to the ACAAI, pollen, mold and insect stings are common allergy culprits during the summer
months. In addition, fresh produce such as celery, apples and melons, can also cause allergy symptoms.
This is known as food pollen syndrome, cross-reacting allergens found in both pollen and raw fruits,
vegetables and some tree nuts.
Allergy symptoms can often be mistaken for a cold. However, there are ways to tell the difference
between a summer cold and an allergy.
“If your symptoms last for more than two weeks, it’s probably an allergy,” said Dr. [INSERT LAST NAME].
“Colds fade while allergies persist. And symptoms such as itchy eyes, nose and throat, along with
sneezing, usually means an allergy. “
Before turning to over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays for relief, allergy sufferers should
speak with an allergist to ensure medication is right for them and enough to combat symptoms. For
more information about seasonal allergies, and to locate an allergist in your area, visit
AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.