Fall and Ragweed Allergies

Spring is often thought of as the season when allergies are at their peak, since most plants release their pollen around this time. However, there is one really common plant that likes to be different - ragweed. Found throughout the U.S., ragweed typically starts releasing its pollen mid-August with levels peaking in mid-September, and pollen counts remaining high through October. 

Have you been experiencing sneezing, wheezing, a stuffy nose, or postnasal drip these past few weeks? Then you probably are allergic to ragweed and will find the following information helpful. 

Who Suffers from Ragweed Allergies? 

You're in good company. Depending on the source you consult, anywhere from 20 to 26 percent of Americans are allergic to ragweed. You can develop an allergy to ragweed pollen at any age, but you're unlikely to stop being allergic without an outside intervention like allergy shots. 

If you have allergies to dust mites, mold, pet dander, or other pollen, you're more likely to also be allergic to ragweed. The allergy seems to run in families, too. 

What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergies? 

Symptoms vary between people. Most people experience the classic combination of a runny nose, itchy eyes, and an itchy throat. In more serious cases, ragweed pollen can cause asthma symptoms such as tightening of the throat and wheezing. Some people find that exposure to pollen causes headaches and general fatigue, though the fatigue may be due to a lack of sleep. 

How Can You Manage Ragweed Allergy Symptoms? 

If you only experience minor to moderate allergy symptoms, you can typically manage them by taking an over-the-counter or prescription allergy medication. Steroid-based nasal sprays tend to work well as they penetrate directly into the irritated tissues to relieve inflammation, which is what causes all that sneezing and stuffiness.  

• Don't open your windows; they let in pollen along with the air. You'll be tempted to cool your home via the windows when those nice, fall temperatures arrive, but rely on your house fan instead.
• Upgrade to a HEPA air filter to trap more pollen, and keep using your air conditioner or house fan so that air circulates through the filter.
• Wipe pets' paws to remove pollen before they come inside.
• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and empty it outside.
• Wipe off your car's handle with a wet wipe before touching it; car handles are often covered in pollen.  

Why Are Ragweed Allergies Getting Worse? 

Have you noticed that your ragweed allergy symptoms have gotten worse or that they last longer than they used to? The problem may not be related to your own body so much as the condition of the planet. Climate change has caused the last few years to be overly rainy and warm - and ragweed loves these conditions. Pollen counts have been higher, and the pollen season has been lasting longer. 

Researchers predict that 2019 will be a particularly rough year for those who are allergic to ragweed since July was so hot and rain was abundant. So stock up on nasal sprays and antihistamines, and keep those home windows shut.  

If your allergy symptoms get out of hand or you start experiencing asthmatic reactions, contact us at the Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Fort Worth. We offer diagnostic testing, allergy shots, and more.