Common Allergens in the Fall and How to Find Relief
Fall is synonymous with leaves changing colors, birds migrating, shorter days, and a drop in temperature. This season also triggers allergies in many people. Allergies are the immune system’s reaction to a foreign substance. Reactions can occur if a substance enters the body or if you come in contact with it. Seasonal allergies happen, well, during certain seasons and are typically the result of environmental allergens. Learn about the common allergens in the fall and how to find relief with the medical team at Breathe Clear Institute.
Triggers of Allergies
With over 50 million Americans suffering from allergies each year, determining the triggers is critical. People often experience reactions due to the following allergens: pollen, mold, and dust mites.
Pollen
One of the most common allergens in the fall is pollen, with ragweed being the main culprit. Pollen is a powder created by trees, grasses, and plants. Carried by wind, pollen fertilizes other plants, but when people breathe in pollen, they can experience various allergy symptoms. Ragweed grows all over the United States and blooms during the fall months.
Mold
Mold is a fungus that grows where moisture is present. Unfortunately, it can be found in both indoor and outdoor environments. Outside, mold spores can be found on damp leaves that can then be tracked into people’s homes. Areas that have high humidity allow mold to thrive.
Dust Mites
Another common type of allergen in the fall is dust mites. What are dust mites? Dust mites are microscopic pests that live in house dust. They feed on dead skin and are most commonly found in bedding, carpet, curtains, furniture, and more.
Symptoms
Symptoms associated with the aforementioned allergens include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, postnasal drip, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation.
Ways to Prevent Allergens in the Fall
Alleviating allergy symptoms can be done in a number of ways. To relieve allergies related to pollen, it is important to remove shoes before entering your home as well change into a new pair of clothing. Keeping an eye out on the pollen counts is also a good way to reduce symptoms. To prevent allergies from mold, we recommend purchasing a dehumidifier if the inside of your home is rather humid, invest in HEPA filters, and be mindful when outside. Dust mites can be reduced by regularly washing bedding, placing dust-proof covers over pillows and mattresses, and vacuuming frequently.
Contact Breathe Clear to Schedule an Appointment for Relief
If you are suffering from allergies during the fall and can’t seem to get rid of your symptoms, contact the professional team at Breathe Clear Institute. During your appointment, we will diagnose your allergy symptoms after undergoing a detailed assessment. An allergy test may be ordered depending on our findings. At Breathe Clear, we perform allergy drops as well as allergy shots once we get to the root of the issue. Helping you get the relief you need and deserve is our priority. We will work with you to choose the treatment option that will best fit your needs. For questions or to book an appointment, please call us or fill out the contact form available at our website.