As summer transitions into fall, many people across the United States are all too familiar with ragweed allergy symptoms. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), ragweed pollen levels peak in mid-September, but the allergen can remain prevalent for months.
"Climatologists and pollen forecasters predict that ragweed season may last four weeks or longer due to the warmer temperatures, a longer growing season and subsequent exposure to allergy-triggering pollens," states Fox News. "It is anticipated that the fall pollen season may last well into October and November."
With this in mind, here are some tips you can follow to keep irritating symptoms such as itchy eyes and a stuffy nose to a minimum this ragweed season:
• Avoid using hair gels that can trap pollen when you go outside
• Be aware of the pollen count in your area
• Get an allergy shot if your doctor recommends doing so
• Peel fruit before eating it so you aren't exposed to allergens that may be on the skin
• Take allergy medications as prescribed
• Wash out your nose with a saline nasal spray and your eyes with a gentle rinse.
It's also a good idea to take a shower and change your clothes once you settle in for the night so you can eliminate any traces of ragweed pollen that you might have picked up during the day. This, in addition to using hypoallergenic mattresses, sheets and pillowcases on your bed, can ensure that you sleep well at night without being exposed to allergens.
