Autumn isn’t called the “season of poetry” for nothing — the crisp weather and tapestry of fall colors is beckoning to be explored with long hikes in the woods and warm pumpkin spiced lattes. Unfortunately for some, runny noses, itchy eyes, wheezing and sneezing also accompany this great time of year.
Common Fall Allergens
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 20 million adults and 6 million children in the US are suffering from indoor and outdoor allergies. The major causes of allergies in the fall are as follows:
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Weeds
The pollen from ragweed is responsible for more than 23 million allergy attacks in the US every year. It has about 17 species and its pollen can be carried by the winds for over 700 miles. Apart from ragweed, lambs’ quarters and wormwood are also known to cause fall allergies.
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Molds and mildew
Molds and mildew are both indoor and outdoor allergens. They grow in moist areas of the house like leaky roofs, walls, pipes, carpet, drywall, or the decomposing matter of trees and plants. Mold spores can fly into the air and enter your nose when disturbed. When cleaning your backyard in the fall, make sure to wear face masks to avoid allergy attacks.
Fall Allergies Treatment Options
Like any other health conditions, avoidance is the best treatment for fall allergies. However, this would also mean that you wouldn’t have the chance to enjoy the wonderful fall season.
Keep updated with the pollen and mold counts and avoid going outside when the pollen counts are high. After going outside, take a shower immediately to prevent bringing allergens inside your home. Make sure to always close the windows and doors of your car and at home when the allergen counts are high.
If avoidance measures are not enough to control your symptoms consider over-the-counter antihistamines and/or intranasal steroid sprays. If you feel like you cannot get your fall allergies under control give your allergist at Bernstein Allergy Group a call so that we can help get you back on track and out there enjoying all the joys the Autumn season has to offer!
