ENT Guide to Fall: Managing Allergy Triggers During Harvest Season

The fall season has officially begun. As we welcome the change of season and get ready for the colder and chillier air, many will have to start dealing with seasonal fall allergies – in fact, many may have already started dealing with annoying allergy symptoms since early September.

Seasonal allergies are not new and cannot be completely avoided, since seasonal changes are only natural. But that doesn’t mean allergy sufferers can’t take proactive measures to manage their symptoms.

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What Are the Symptoms of Fall Allergies?

• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Frequent sneezing
• Coughing
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Skin rashes

What Triggers Fall Allergies?

Fall allergies, much like other seasonal allergies, are triggered by airborne allergens that travel through the air and people absentmindedly inhale.

The biggest fall allergy trigger is ragweed pollen. Ragweed is a weed that grows throughout the United States. It releases pollen from August through November. Ragweed pollen is typically at its highest peak in early to mid-September.

Mold is another common fall allergy trigger. Mold commonly grows in moist and damp environments and strong winds carry mold spores for allergy sufferers to breathe in easily. Other indoor allergens to watch out for include dust, dust mites, pet dander, and cockroaches.

How Are Fall Allergies Diagnosed?

An allergist can diagnose seasonal allergies. Our expert allergists at Capitol Breathe Free will conduct a thorough allergy test to see if you have allergies and what your allergens are.

Managing Fall Allergy Triggers and Symptoms

Here are simple yet effective ways to manage your seasonal allergy this fall season:

1. Know your triggers. Knowing what you are allergic to will be the best way to manage allergy symptoms.
2. Make it a habit to always check pollen counts before heading out. This lets you know if you should take extra precautions like taking allergy medications before going out.
3. Keep the windows to your home and car always closed and shut during allergy season.
4. Always wear a mask when going out, especially when allergen counts are high, to minimize your exposure.
5. If you can, choose to stay indoors if pollen counts are especially high for the day.
6. Always wash your hands during allergy season and avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth.
7. Once you get home, immediately take off your outdoor clothes and get in the shower to get rid of pollen and other allergens you may have picked up during your time outside.
8. Keep indoor air clean by investing in high-quality filters. Additionally, get a dehumidifier to keep the air dry.
9. Try medications like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and decongestants to manage and alleviate your symptoms.
10. Consider long-term immunotherapy treatment like allergy shots or allergy drops.

Can Fall Allergies Be Treated?

While technically not a cure, immunotherapy for allergies does exist and is widely practiced worldwide. Immunotherapy options like allergy shots and allergy drops desensitize your body to known allergens. It introduces small amounts of your allergen into your system until your body learns to be immune from it.

Say Goodbye to Fall Allergies With Capitol Breathe Free

If you’re ready to reclaim your life and breathe freely again despite the changes in season, our team at Capitol Breathe Free can help. Our expertise combined with our years of experience can help you with any of your allergy and sinus health concerns. Schedule an appointment today and let’s start you on your journey towards better health this fall season!