Get Ready to Sneeze: Fall Allergies Are Back!

Say Goodbye to Summer, Say Hello to Fall Allergies Prepare for Ragweed, Mold, and More

Prepare for Fall Allergies Ragweed, Mold, and More

Ragweed, Mold & More: Get Ready for Fall Allergies

While you may have enjoyed a break from your environmental allergies during the hot, dry summer, brace yourself because the sneeze season is back! Ragweed and mold are taking over the air this fall like an invasion of tiny, relentless soldiers.

Dr. David Corry, a professor in the section of immunology, allergy, and rheumatology at Baylor College of Medicine, jokingly warns, “This summer was a breath of fresh air for sensitive folks dealing with mold and pollen allergies. But now that we’re seeing more rain after this drought, we’re experiencing a sudden bloom of ragweed and mold in Houston.”

Is it an Allergy or a Virus?

One of the tricky parts about fall allergies is that they often mimic the symptoms of seasonal viruses. Dr. Corry advises, “Don’t be fooled! You might mistake those sniffles and watery eyes for a common cold, but it could just be your body’s dramatic response to the sudden assault of pollen or mold.”

Here’s a handy guide to help you separate the sneezy truth from the viral lies:

Allergies Viruses
Sneezing Sore Throat
Runny nose Malaise
Itchy or watery eyes Flu or Cold

A temporary body aching reaction, similar to the feeling after a visit to the gym, might occur due to excessive exposure to a large amount of pollen or mold. But fret not, it won’t last long!

How to Fight the Fall Allergic Onslaught

If you suspect that your body is engaging in a full-blown war against allergens, fear not! There are ways to defend yourself:

  1. Nasal Allergy Spray: Arm yourself with a trusty nasal allergy spray for immediate relief. Spray away those sneeze-inducing invaders.

  2. Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: Take these soldiers of symptom relief twice a day to keep those watery eyes and itchy noses at bay.

  3. Distilled Water Saline Sinus Rinse: Engage in a refreshing rinse battle against those persistent allergens with a Neti pot, squeeze bottle, or, for the tech-savvy, an electronic machine.

But Don’t Forget to Call for Reinforcements!

If your allergies continue to wage a merciless assault, it’s time to bring in the big guns. Seek help from an allergist who can offer additional strategies to ease your symptoms.

Dr. Corry suggests, “Allergy shots can be incredibly helpful, but by visiting your allergist, we can also check for nasal obstructions, nasal polyps, sleep apnea, or even start immunotherapy!”

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – fall allergies are back with a vengeance. Whether you’re taking a hayride through a pumpkin patch or engaging in outdoor activities, remember to stay vigilant and watch for potential mold ambushes.

Now, take a deep breath (or maybe not, depending on the pollen count) and fight those pesky allergens like the sneeze warriors you are!

Reader’s Challenge! Share your wildest allergy encounter or your secret weapon against allergens in the comments below. Let’s unite and take down these airborne foes, one sneeze at a time!


More information

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology has more on seasonal allergies.

Source: Baylor College of Medicine, news release, Oct. 10, 2023

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