Find Relief for Fall Allergy Symptoms

8/26/2024

By Dana Johnson, FNP-C, at Moberly Rural Health Clinic, which is a part of Moberly Regional Medical Center

The seasons don’t discriminate when it comes to allergies. For many who suffer from seasonal allergies, fall is the worst time of year. Though the cooler weather is welcomed, the foliage is changing, and weeds and other plants release pollen that can send allergy sufferers indoors. Unfortunately, allergens can lurk there, as well.

While almost 40 million Americans suffer from allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, and there is no cure, allergies can be managed with proper prevention and treatment.

Ragweed pollen is one of the most common triggers for fall allergy symptoms. This hardy plant is common in the northeast, south and midwest regions of the United States. Peak ragweed season starts in mid-August and lasts through October.

Ragweed pollen can cause oral allergy syndrome (OAS). In OAS, you may experience itching in the mouth and throat, along with mild swelling, after you consume fresh fruits and vegetables such as banana, cucumber, melon and zucchini. This syndrome occurs because proteins in the ragweed pollen and certain fruits or vegetables are similar in structure; therefore, your body has the same reaction to both the ragweed pollen and the food.

In addition to ragweed pollen, pollen from other plants, trees and grass can set off allergies in the fall. Mold can grow under leaves that have fallen and this can lead to a reaction, too.

Fall Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms can vary, depending on the part of the body exposed to the allergen.

• Skin – hives; dry, itchy skin; eczema
• Lungs – wheezing and asthma
• Eyes and nose – watery, itchy eyes; clear, runny mucus; sneezing
• Mouth – itching in the back of the throat, upset stomach, diarrhea and, in extreme cases, anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction)

Controlling Fall Allergies
Here are a few allergy management tips to help you get back to enjoying life, both inside and outside:

• Check pollen levels. If you live in a high pollen zone, limit your time outdoors on high pollen count days.
• Limit yard work. Have someone who is not allergic rake the leaves and mow the lawn, or wear a face mask and goggles if you must do it yourself.
• Don’t hang clothes outdoors to dry. Wet laundry attracts pollen that will eventually end up indoors.
• Stay clean. Minimize allergen exposure by washing pollens off your skin and hair after spending time outside. You should also change your shoes before entering the house and change clothes inside the front door to reduce the amount of pollen and allergens you may bring in the house.
• Use a dehumidifier. Because dust mites and molds flourish in a humid environment, using a dehumidifier to remove some of the humidity from the air inside your home will help reduce indoor allergy symptoms.
• Use hypoallergenic filters. Forget the instructions on the package. Change your air conditioner filters monthly, using HEPA filters, if possible. Always place the used filter in a plastic garbage bag, then dispose of the bag outdoors.
• Use the air conditioner at night. To keep your bedroom clean and pollen free, close the windows and turn on the air conditioning. A HEPA filter system, especially during high pollen season, will help ensure you breathe purified air while you sleep.
• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine. This is an effective step, and fortunately, many OTC allergy drugs are now non-drowsy, long-lasting and effective.

If seasonal allergy symptoms interfere with your daily life, visit your doctor who can correctly diagnose your allergy and recommend ways to manage it. An allergy test will help identify the source of your suffering and determine the right treatment to control symptoms.

Treatment may involve medications such as antihistamines, Leukotriene receptor antagonists, steroid nasal sprays, decongestants or immunotherapy (i.e., allergy shots).

If you're a fall allergy sufferer, there's little reason to dread the arrival of autumn. Knowing how to reduce your exposure to mold and pollen can make all the difference.

If you need help managing fall allergies and need to see a primary care provider, visit moberlyphysicians.com.

About Dana Johnson, FNP-C
Dana Johnson has been in nursing since 2014 and became a family nurse practitioner in 2019. Her career has included many different areas of healthcare including being a clinical instructor. Dana is eager to see patients from birth to end of life and looks forward to taking care of entire families.

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