Do You Suffer From Fall Allergies?

Ragweed and mold are common irritants for those who suffer from allergies or hayfever during the fall. Ragweed begins blooming in mid-August through October. Ragweed is a weed that can grow 4-15 feet tall depending on the species. The most allergy causing species are the ambrosia aratemisiifolia (short/normal ragweed) and ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed). It is estimated that in the United States alone 100 million tons of pollen are produced each season. It can travel through the air up to 400 miles. The weed is normally found in underdeveloped areas or abandoned lots. Mold spores also travel in the wind and are usually problematic during July through late summer. Mold can often be found outside on rotting wood, fallen leaves, in compost piles, gutters, soils, vegetation, etc. Hot, dry days when there is a breeze are the days with the highest pollen and spore counts. Any pollen count that is over 100 is considered to be high. There are certain mold species that release spores during times of extreme humidity, or when fog or dew is present.

Symptoms of fall allergies include: runny nose, congestion, itchy and watery eyes, itchy or scratchy throat (due to postnasal drip), and a cough that is worse in the mornings and at night. For those who have asthma or severe allergies, asthma attacks can occur as a result. Although it may be hard to decipher the difference between a cold and an allergic reaction, note that allergic reactions do not cause fever or achy muscles. If the symptoms persist through the entire fall season then it is safe to say that you are suffering from fall allergies.

Other possible triggers of fall allergies can come from the pollen of the following weeds: cocklebur, lamb's quarter, plantain, pigweed, tumbleweed, sagebrush, etc. Certain trees can also cause reactions. If you know that you have a ragweed allergy it is best to avoid eating the following fruits: honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, and banana; also avoid the herb chamomile. These are known to be cross-reactive foods and can cause allergic reactions as well.

Tips To Avoid Exposure To Pollen Or Mold Spores This Fall

• Try not to be outdoors for any extended period of time during the morning hours of 5am-10am. Most of us have to leave for work somewhere between those times, just be brief and keep your car windows closed and your air conditioner on.
• On that note: Keep your windows and doors of your home and car closed all season. Use an air conditioner to keep it cool inside, not fans or attic fans.
• Do not hang clothes or linens outside. Dry them in a clothes dryer.
• The best time to do outside chores is right after heavy rainfall or late in the afternoon.
• After spending any extended period of time outdoors shower, wash hair and change clothing.
• Avoid cross-reactive foods: honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, banana and chamomile.
• Use liquid tears to help flush out pollen or mold spores from the eyes.
• Avoid exposure to insect sprays, tobacco smoke, and, in general, pollution.
• Note local pollen counts. The National Allergy Bureau is a good source to learn about the pollen count in your region. You can contact them by going to www.aaaai.org and clicking on to pollen counts at the very top of the web page.