Risks of building

Look out your window. Chances are there's some sort of scaffolding obstructing your view. Construction is not only unsightly, but it poses health risks, too. Asbestos, man-made mineral fibers, cement residue and wood dust are just some of the culprits.

Waiting to inhale: "Dust from all the building may well cause more varied and severe allergies than dust generated from 'natural sources,' such as animal hair and plant pollen," says Dr. Manjula Jegasothy, a dermatologist at the Miami Skin Institute. "This is because construction dust is often composed of particles from many different sources present at the building site. Coupled together, they irritate the skin and nasal membranes."

Don't scratch: An individual prone to hay fever or allergies, or with a family history of either condition, can develop itchy hives after coming into contact with dust. While the rash itself is medically not serious, Jegasothy said, it can become chronic, lasting weeks or even months. Treatment is usually prescription topical antihistamine creams.

A full-on attack: Occasionally, even a mild case of hives can progress to a systemic allergy, meaning the entire body is affected. Anaphylaxis or "allergic shock" -- when the person's throat and lung passages swell, causing breathing problems -- requires a trip to the ER.

Stay away: The best way to prevent any of these conditions is avoidance, Jegasothy said. If this is impossible, think about investing in a mask, available at surgical supplies stores.