Reasons Why Allergies Worsen During The Fall

Weeds And Pollen Are More Rampant

The prize for the number one fall allergy producer goes to ragweed. This plant normally begins sending pollen into the air in mid-August and continues to do so until October or the first hard freeze. Even if you don’t live in a place where ragweed grows, you may feel its effects: wind can carry its pollen four hundred miles or more. Sufferers may find some produce, including zucchini, melons, and bananas can bring on symptoms.

In addition, warm days give pollen levels a boost. And when it rains, weeds (including goldenrod, sagebrush, and ragweed) grow like—well, like weeds. For the as many as twenty percent of Americans who have a ragweed allergy, there are many ways to enjoy autumn. Wearing a mask when outdoors (especially while working in the yard) can relieve the congestion, itching and watering eyes, coughing, sinus discomfort, and sneezing that are hallmarks of seasonal allergies.

Lack Of Consistency With Allergy Treatment

According to allergists, sufferers only begin to feel relief from medicine after taking it for two or three days. And allergy shots, which gradually desensitize an individual's immune system to the allergen, must be given regularly. To fully reap the benefits of allergy medicine, it’s essential to take them consistently, not only when you have symptoms. The optimum time to begin is several weeks in advance of the season to give them a chance to become effective.

Ragweed’s 'opening day' is fairly predictable—usually a week or two either side of August 15—so knowing when to jump-start treatment is simple. Individuals with allergies may also want to continue to use medicine until the end of the season. A lack of consistency with allergy medicine can have even more serious consequences, as symptoms can rapidly escalate into complications requiring more rigorous therapy. Always communicate with your doctor and follow their recommendation.