Recently on this blog, we talked a bit about how fall weather and household chores may act as triggers for your pesky fall allergies. Things like raking or leaf-blowing the yard and cleaning out gutters before the onset of winter can actually cause the same types of reactions as high pollen and ragweed counts in late summer.
Over the past month or two, we have experienced record high temperatures for this time of year, and as a result, many allergy sufferers have been miserable much later in the year than they are traditionally used to. According to My Fox D.C., a Fox News affiliate station, over 75 percent of people who battle springtime allergies are also suffering from high levels of ragweed pollen. The bad news is that those who are prone to ragweed allergies will be suffering until at least the first frost.
But, no matter how bad your symptoms may get, there are still things that people can do to make this season a bit easier:
Clothes – Any allergy veteran will tell you that allergens are often carried around right on your person. Not drying your clothes on a clothes line and regularly washing jackets, jeans and outerwear will help you reduce the impact of irritating airborne particles.
Glasses – During the fall season, oversized clothing is totally in style, which is part of the reason we recommend rocking a glam set of shades. These can help you block out airborne pollens and mold spores that otherwise have easy access to your eyeballs. This will also help reduce the redness and irritation that you sometimes experience for seemingly no reason.
Hat – Ladies know all too well that long hair can attract pollen over the course of the day, resulting in a 'do that makes your eyes and skin itchy and irritated. But opting for a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors can work wonders for your overall health. Another tip is to avoid hair gel or spray that will attract and hold pollen in place on your head.
Know the count – It may seem like common sense to be aware of the weather outside before gearing up to step out, but knowing the pollen count can really help you avoid a bad reaction. Most pollen levels are highest on days that are dry, windy and sunny, so if you are experiencing a stretch of gorgeous fall weather, be sure to load up on allergy solutions before leaving the house.
Mold – Approximately 15 percent of people are sensitive to mold, which is why dealing with the problem – if one arises – in your home is key. The most common areas in the house for mold to grow is the bathroom, basement and areas that have damp carpeting (like an entryway). Be sure to check these locations this fall. If you smell mildew, chances are that you also have a mold problem that should be dealt with as soon as possible.
Treatment – If you have had allergies for a while, you know that taking medication ahead of your symptoms is the best way to avoid suffering too much at the height of allergy season. Things like allergy shots and oral and nasal antihistamines are great ways to combat symptoms no matter what the season.
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