Pesky Fall Allergies

The fall season is upon us and that means its time for new seasonal allergies to rear their ugly heads. This season can be particularly difficult for people who are sensitive to mold and ragweed pollen. But these seasonal elements arent the only triggers that can make symptoms worse this time of year. Farmers are finishing up their harvesting, piles of leaves are sitting stagnant and the damp air are just a few triggers that can send your allergies into a tailspin. Here are four facts about fall allergies:

Is Hay Fever Caused From Real Hay? Hay fever, a term from a bygone era, actually has nothing to do with hay. Instead, its a general term used to describe the symptoms of late summer allergies. Ragweed is a common cause of hay fever, which is also known as allergic rhinitis. The plant usually begins to pollenate in mid-August and may continue to be a problem until a hard freeze.

Enjoy Those Lingering Warm Temps While most people enjoy Indian summer, unseasonably warm temperatures can make rhinitis symptoms last longer. Mold spores can also be released when humidity is high, or the weather is dry and windy.

Leaf Piles Are No Longer Fun Some folks might find it difficult to keep up with raking leaves throughout the autumn. But for allergy sufferers, raking presents its own problem. It can stir agitating pollen and mold into the air, causing allergy and asthma symptoms.

School GermsICK! It s not only seasonal pollen and mold that triggers allergies this time of year. Kids are often exposed to classroom irritants and allergy triggers. These can include chalk dust (Who uses chalkboards still?) and classroom pets. Students with food allergies may also be exposed to allergens in the lunch room.