Fall is Upon Us
As summer draws near an end, the bliss of fall rehash pumpkin spice dreams and lightening bugs gathering over pumpkin patches. For the most part, this is the most enchanting time of year as the leaves change and the days become shorter. For others, it can be a daunting time of year specifically those who suffer from severe allergies.
Allergy season begins at the onset of spring and lasts throughout the fall. There are certain allergens that are more prevalent at different times during spans of that period.
The Culprit: Ragweed
According to Maryland Primary Care Physicians, from March until April, tree pollen is one of the main triggers to allergy sufferers. Weeds and grass contribute to the cause too.
Ragweed, relative to the daisy family is a flowering plant that produces a considerable amount of pollen during fall months. After taking a beating from spring-summer tree pollen, ragweed is most to blame for menacing allergies during fall months.
As per the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America,ragweeds produce one billion pollen grains; however, active for only one season: fall. About 10-20 percent of Americans suffer from ragweed pollen.
Moreover, rhinitis or hay fever best describes the illness that occurs when one is exposed to any of the aforementioned allergens. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing runny nose, nasal congestion, irritated eyes and itchy throat according to American College of Allergy, Asthma and immunology.
Combating Ragweed
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Rhinitis. Yet, there are ways to combat seasonal allergies as the seasons transition.
- Avoid ragweed pollen as levels are highest during the morning.
- Change clothes after being outside for prolonged periods of time.
- Keep pet indoors on high pollen days.
- Sounds boring, but stay indoors! The best way to avoid pollen is to avoid outside.
- Take over-the-counter antihistamines, or consult a physician to treat severe symptoms.
