Allergens Overstay Welcome as Warmer Fall persists
Allergens are in full swing and showing no signs of letting up, with a warmer than normal fall having a significant impact on the length of the pollen season.
Warmer Fall, Longer Pollen Season
“With this warmer fall weather, we are seeing that weed pollen extend into October, into November, and it may even extend a little bit farther depending on how long we get this warmer season,” said Nora Perkins, M.D., at Albany ENT & Allergy Services.
Ragweed: The Common Culprit
Dr. Perkins explains that ragweed is a common plant throughout the Northeast, releasing billions of pollen spores and causing allergy symptoms. “And that can present with a runny nose, itchy nose, post-nasal drainage, nasal congestion,” she said.
Don’t Worry, It’s Not Just Mold
Even if the sun cools off for autumn, this won’t be the end of allergens in the air. Instead, they may come from damp leaves on the ground, which can cause mold allergies. Sometimes, this can present with even more subtle symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, and dizziness.
If Over-the-Counter Medications Don’t Work, See a Doctor
Allergies are caused by an inflammatory response to what are considered ‘normal things’ in the environment. If over-the-counter medications aren’t effective in alleviating symptoms, Dr. Perkins recommends consulting a doctor for further treatment. “We can do some allergy testing that can help determine what specific allergies you have and how best to treat them,” she said.
Conclusion
The warmer fall has consequences for those with allergies, with ragweed and mold spores lingering in the air. If you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
Q: What is the common culprit behind fall allergies?
A: Ragweed is a common plant throughout the Northeast, releasing billions of pollen spores and causing allergy symptoms.
Q: What are the common symptoms of fall allergies?
A: Runny nose, itchy nose, post-nasal drainage, nasal congestion, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness are common symptoms.
Q: What should I do if over-the-counter medications don’t work?
A: Consult a doctor for further treatment, including allergy testing and treatment options.
