Allergens You May Encounter This Fall

With each season comes new allergens present in our environment, and fall is no exception to this. In addition to the back to school season germs, fall allergens will be another daily obstacle. This blog will discuss the fall allergens you may encounter and how to deal with them before allergy treatment is needed.

Ragweed

One of the biggest offenders when it comes to the fall allergies is Ragweed. One ragweed plant can produce approximately one billion pollen grains each season. Ragweed produces plentifully throughout the South, North, and Midwest regions of the United States. Ragweed’s lightweight pollen has the ability to travel up to 400 miles via the wind alone. Ragweed’s season typically begins at the end of the summer and extends into the majority of the fall season. Ragweed is often found in vacant lots, fields and along roads. Here in the south, Ragweed has the potential to pollinate into the winter if temperatures allow.

Mold

Molds that live outdoors can be another cause of fall allergies. The mold begins to develop in early spring and can continue to thrive until the first drop in temperature; which in the south can be quite late. Mold is commonly found in soil, compost piles, and in the leaves. Mold spores are commonly absorbed as airborne allergens. They are so small, and easily inhaled into the body. Spores rise high into the air during the warmer temperatures of the day and settle to the ground with the cooler temperatures of the evening.

Managing Fall Allergies

If you are often affected by mold and ragweed, being extra cautious about these allergens on windy days where they will be more active in the air is key. The easiest habits that you can avoid during this time of year is avoiding time outside on windy days and avoiding line drying with your clothes and linens.

If you are concerned about fall allergies, contact Alabama ENT today to learn more about what you can so to help your symptoms.  For more information, visit our blog page.