May 2016
&
If you have a prior
history of seasonal
problems, start
medications two
weeks before they are
expected to begin.
The most common culprit for fall allergies is ragweed, which blooms and releases pollen from August to
November. Other plants that trigger fall allergies include
cocklebur, burning bush, pigweed, lamb’s-quarters, sagebrush, mugwort, tumbleweed and Russian thistle.
While seasonal allergies generally refer to pollen, grass
and mold, a different group of allergy triggers is also
tied to particular seasons. They are smoke (fireplaces in
winter, campfires in summer); chlorine in indoor and
outdoor swimming pools; insect bites and stings (usually
in summer and spring); pine trees and wreaths (during
Thanksgiving to Christmas); and some candy ingredients
(Easter, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Halloween).
You may think you know your triggers or believe
pollen is causing your seasonal allergies, but other substances could be involved as well. Be sure to work with
your allergist to find ways to avoid your triggers. Many
things, including animal dander and house dust, can trigger allergies. When checking on your allergies, your doctor will want to know if you have pets, if anyone smokes
in the house, your age when you started getting allergy
symptoms and if anyone else in your family suffers from
allergies.
Monitor pollen and mold counts and keep the doors
and windows shut in your car and at home during the
allergy season. Stay inside during the afternoon, when
pollen counts are highest. Take a shower, wash your hair
and change your clothes after you’ve worked or played
outdoors. Wear a NIOSH-rated 95 filter mask while
mowing the lawn or doing other outdoor chores and take
medications beforehand.
One of the most effective ways to treat seasonal allergies linked to pollen is immunotherapy (allergy shots).
These injections expose you to gradual increments of
your allergen, so you learn to tolerate it instead of reacting with sneezing, a stuffy nose and itchy, watery eyes.
Over-the-counter allergy medications may ease your
discomfort. A nasal decongestant may help relieve
a stuffy nose. If you have a prior history of seasonal
problems, start medications two weeks before they are
expected to begin. Be sure to consult your doctor before
you take any medication.
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