Understanding What’s in the Air This Fall
As summer comes to an end and cooler weather arrives, many people across the Carolinas look forward to enjoying everything fall has to offer. But for those with seasonal allergies, fall can also mean weeks of sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and other uncomfortable symptoms. One of the biggest culprits? Ragweed.
Ragweed is a common source of fall allergies throughout North Carolina. “Fall is one of our busiest seasons,” our allergist Dr. Lisa Biswas says. “We’ve got ragweed season. It’s a weed season. There’s also a lot of mold in the atmosphere as well.”
Unlike the thick yellow pollen coating everything in the spring, ragweed pollen is lightweight and often invisible, making it harder to identify.
When Is Ragweed Season in North Carolina?
Ragweed season typically begins in late summer, with pollen levels increasing in August and often reaching their peak in September. Depending on the weather and when the first frost arrives, ragweed pollen can remain in the air well into October, November or even December in some areas.
Dr. Lisa Biswas says weather also plays a major role in the duration of ragweed season and how severe symptoms become.
“Warmer temperatures are going to result in longer pollen seasons,” Dr. Biswas said. “The wind is going to blow the pollen around even more. And when we have humid conditions, we’re going to see a lot more mold growth as well.”
Ragweed thrives in fields, vacant lots, roadsides, and other areas where weeds can grow undisturbed. While you may associate ragweed with rural areas, its pollen can travel long distances on the wind. This means you don’t have to live near a field or see ragweed growing in your neighborhood to experience allergy symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergies?
Ragweed allergies occur when your immune system reacts to proteins in ragweed pollen. When you inhale the pollen, your body releases chemicals, including histamine, that cause allergy symptoms.
Common ragweed allergy symptoms include:
- Sneezing and a runny nose
- Nasal congestion and a stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery or red eyes
- An itchy nose, throat or roof of the mouth
- Postnasal drip
- Coughing and throat irritation
For people with asthma, exposure to ragweed pollen may also contribute to coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Because ragweed allergy symptoms can resemble those of a cold or other respiratory illnesses, it isn’t always easy to tell what’s causing your discomfort. If your symptoms repeatedly appear around the same time each year, seasonal allergies may be the reason.
“If you’re having runny noses, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, definitely could be allergies, but if you’ve got fever and muscle aches, probably a viral illness,” Dr. Biswas said.
Why Are Fall Allergies So Difficult to Avoid?
Unlike some other allergens, ragweed pollen is particularly challenging to escape because it is lightweight and easily carried by the wind. Pollen can travel hundreds of miles from its original source, exposing people who may not have ragweed growing nearby.
Additionally, ragweed isn’t the only allergen that can cause problems in the fall. Mold spores are another common trigger, especially when leaves begin to fall and accumulate in damp outdoor areas. Cooler nights, warmer daytime temperatures and changing weather conditions can also influence when plants release pollen and how much pollen is present in the air.
For people with multiple environmental allergies, the combination of ragweed, mold and other seasonal triggers can make fall an especially uncomfortable time of year.
5 Ways to Manage Ragweed Allergy Symptoms
Although you can’t completely eliminate pollen exposure, there are steps you can take to reduce your contact with ragweed and manage your symptoms.
1. Check the Daily Pollen Count
Keeping track of local pollen levels can help you plan your outdoor activities and take precautions when pollen counts are high. Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center offers a daily Pollen & Mold Counter that provides information about current allergen levels in the Charlotte area.
2. Limit Outdoor Exposure During High-Pollen Periods
If you’re allergic to ragweed, try to limit prolonged outdoor activities when pollen levels are elevated, such as the daytime during warm, dry, and windy days. If you need to spend time outdoors, consider wearing sunglasses to help keep pollen away from your eyes. You can also wear a well-fitting mask when doing yard work or other activities that expose you to large amounts of pollen.
3. Keep Pollen Out of Your Home
Pollen can easily enter your home through open windows, doors, clothing and hair. Taking a few simple precautions can help minimize indoor exposure. Try these tips:
- Keep windows and doors closed when pollen counts are high.
- Use air conditioning instead of opening windows to cool your home.
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
- Wash bedding regularly to remove pollen that may have accumulated.
- Consider using a HEPA air purifier in your bedroom.
4. Start Managing Symptoms Before They Get Worse
Depending on your individual needs, an allergist may recommend medications such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays or other treatments to help control your symptoms. Some allergy medications work best when started before symptoms become severe. Talk with your healthcare provider about when to begin treatment and which options may be appropriate for you.
5. Consider Allergy Testing and Treatment
If your symptoms return every fall despite your best efforts, it may be time to see an allergist. Allergy testing can help identify whether ragweed or other environmental allergens are contributing to your symptoms. Once your triggers are identified, your allergist can develop a personalized treatment plan.
For more helpful tips on managing ragweed allergies, download our free 14-page ragweed allergies e-book.
When Should You See an Allergist for Ragweed Allergies?
Occasional sneezing or a runny nose may not seem like a big deal, but recurring allergy symptoms can affect your sleep, energy levels, productivity and ability to enjoy your favorite activities.
Consider scheduling an appointment with an allergist if:
- Your allergy symptoms return every fall and interfere with your daily life.
- Over-the-counter medications aren’t providing enough relief.
- You experience persistent nasal congestion, sinus pressure or postnasal drip.
- Your symptoms are affecting your sleep or ability to participate in outdoor activities.
- You experience coughing, wheezing or other asthma symptoms during allergy season.
- You’re unsure whether your symptoms are caused by allergies or another condition.
An allergist can help identify what’s triggering your symptoms, recommend treatment options and work with you to develop a plan that fits your needs.
Enjoy Fall Without Letting Ragweed Allergies Hold You Back
Fall in the Carolinas brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from football games and festivals to hiking and family gatherings. But if ragweed allergies are getting in the way, you don’t have to simply put up with the symptoms.
With the right combination of prevention, medication and personalized treatment, you can take steps toward feeling better and enjoying more of the season.
At Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center, our experienced allergy specialists are here to help you identify your triggers and find a treatment plan that works for you. With 16 convenient locations, getting the care you need is easier than ever.
Don’t let ragweed allergies take over your fall. Schedule an appointment with Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center today.