Pollen Allergies Cause Misery in Late Summer to Early Autumn

It is ragweed season, the time of year that leaves many allergy sufferers praying for the first frost to kill the troublesome pollens that make life miserable. Pollen from ragweed causes symptoms that can be miserable for people with severe allergies. Allergic reactions go beyond the itching, sneezing and wheezing that people associate with allergies. Allergic hay fever can develop into serious complications.

Hay fever from ragweed and other pollens can develop into complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, sore throats, cough, and headache. Advanced symptoms can include fatigue, poor sleep, and irritability. Increased amounts of ragweed pollen can trigger life threatening asthma symptoms, including wheezing and difficulty breathing.

People with allergies should see a qualified allergist to identify allergens and to control the symptoms. People with allergies often have multiple triggers. Knowledge goes a long way so that the patient knows what to avoid. The allergist may recommend allergy shots and/or avoidance techniques.

Ragweed reaches its peak pollen count around Labor Day. The pesky pollen can persist into late September to mid-October. The pollen counts rise during the dry weather conditions of late summer. See Ragweed Allergies the Scourge of Indian Summer.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology offers tips to help keep allergy symptoms in check.

Tips to Help Control Ragweed Allergy Symptoms

Take recommended prescription, or over the counter, medication before the exposure to pollen. Oral or nasal antihistamine or cortisone nasal sprays work better before exposure to allergens. Taking medication before symptoms start is a good preventative measure.
Avoid being outdoors during the peak pollen time of day, from daybreak to Noon.
Avoid activities such as gardening and outdoor exercise when pollen counts are high.
Wear a pollen mask to protect nasal passages.
Avoid windy weather because it blows pollen.
Keep pollen out of the living environment by keeping the windows in the car and house closed.
Change the air filter on the home air conditioning system at least every three months. High-efficiency pleated filters with a MERV rating of 8 to 12 percent are more effective at removing allergens from the home than regular air filters. Using an allergy air purifier is a great solution (read here).
Change clothes after being outside, as pollen collects on clothing.
Wash hair before bedtime to wash away irritating pollen.
Wash hands after handling furry pets that have been outdoors. Pets that have been outdoors are pollen collectors.
Avoid wearing contact lenses outdoors, as the pollen can irritate eyes, making them itch and tear.

Avoiding the culprit is often the best way to alleviate allergic symptoms. Make some lifestyle adjustments for better health.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. Make an appointment with a physician for additional information.