Fall is here, which means that cooler temperatures and shorter days will soon trigger the start of cold and flu season. For seasonal allergy sufferers, fall can also mean stuffy noses, sneezing, headaches, itchy eyes, and coughs or wheezing. No matter the symptoms, allergies in the fall can affect work and school performance, and reduce your overall quality of life.
Since the season has changed, our allergy specialists have been treating many sensitive patients experiencing symptoms, especially those triggered by ragweed, a stubborn plant that can grow in abundance in the region. Because fall is the typical time to start seeing ragweed, allergy sufferers will want to take precautions to avoid exposure to ragweed and get treatment to avoid negative symptoms and setbacks.
At the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, our Atlanta allergists are ready to help allergy sufferers throughout the region prepare now for fall allergies. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you.
What is Ragweed?
Ragweed is a type of flowering plant that produces one billion pollen grains per average season. These grains can travel up to 400 miles due to their lightweight texture which can easily carry in the wind. It commonly grows in fields, along roadsides, and in vacant lots. Ragweed and other common weeds are most prevalent from August through October and are a major cause of fall allergies.
Ragweed causes what most people commonly refer to as "hay fever" from breathing in ragweed pollen. When exposed to ragweed, allergy sufferers often experience sneezing, runny noses, and swollen, itchy, watery eyes. These symptoms can have a major impact on a person's daily life, including his or her ability to sleep soundly and function well at school or work.
Ragweed, in addition to other fall allergies, can also cause sinus problems, including repeated infections and flares of asthma. It can also trigger breathing difficulties such as a persistent cough, wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty with exercise.
Begin Your Fall Allergy Treatment
Treating allergies, with medications and immunotherapy or allergy shots, can provide a cure for negative symptoms and chronic problems. Take control of your symptoms and get a leg up on fall allergies by working with our award-winning team of specialists. For other ways in which you can help prevent allergy symptoms, check out the top 5 tips doctor's recommend for overcoming allergies naturally.