Common Fall Allergies and Ways to Avoid Them

It’s fall, and you want to do what you love most – go outside and enjoy the crisp weather. You have ordered your favorite meal from Whataburger and are on your way to the park for a picnic. However, halfway through your meal, you start feeling itchiness in your throat and nose.

Your eyes water and your nose starts running uncontrollably. You are experiencing an allergic reaction!

Fall is the peak season for allergies caused by pollen from trees, weeds, and grasses. In this article, we are going to discuss the most common fall allergies and ways to avoid them.

Why Are Allergies Common During Fall?

There are many reasons why allergies may force you to get the Omnitex face mask in the fall and not in any other season. They include:

Ragweed

Ragweed – a beautiful yellow flower that blooms in late summer and early fall – is the most common allergen during this season. It can cause hay fever, which is characterized by symptoms such as watery eyes, itchy throat, runny nose, and sneezing.

The pollen from ragweed is very light and can travel for miles before landing on your nose and throat. It can even enter through your open windows while you are driving!

To avoid ragweed allergies, try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, which is usually in the morning. You should also keep your windows closed and use an air conditioner in your car.

It’s worth noting that ragweed pollen can also trigger asthma attacks in people who are allergic to it. Therefore, if you have asthma, it’s important to take your medication and avoid being outdoors when pollen is everywhere.

The best way to deal with ragweed is to monitor your local pollen count. Local news outlets usually report the pollen count every day. You can also use a phone app, such as Pollen.com, to check the pollen count in your area.

Mold

Another allergen that is common during fall is mold. Mold grows on dead leaves, logs, and other organic matter. It’s usually found in damp, humid places.

Mold spores are light and can easily be inhaled. When they enter your nose and throat, they can cause allergic reactions, such as watery eyes, itchy throat, runny nose, sneezing, and asthma attacks. 

There are a few ways you can deal with mold:

■ Rake your yard: The main cause of mold is dead leaves. Raking them up will help reduce the amount of mold in your yard.

■ Keep compost bins covered: If you have a compost bin, make sure it is covered. This will prevent mold spores from spreading in your yard.

■ Wear a mask: When you are outside, and there is a lot of mold in the air, wear a mask to avoid inhaling it.

■ Keep your indoor humidity low: Mold loves humid environments. Use a dehumidifier to keep the indoor humidity below 50%.

■ Use anti-mold agents to clean mold: You can use products, such as bleach and vinegar, to clean mold from your home. Avoid using chemicals, such as ammonia, as they can release toxins into the air.

Dust Mites

These small creatures are one of the most common indoor allergens. They live in dust and thrive in humid environments. Dust mites are so small that you can’t see them with the naked eye.

They usually don’t cause any problems for people who don’t have allergies. However, if you’re allergic to dust mites, their feces and body parts can trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, itchy nose, watery eyes, and sometimes, asthma attacks.

There are a few ways you can deal with dust mites:

■ Wash your bedding in hot water: Dust mites love to live in bedding. Washing your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (130 degrees Fahrenheit) will kill them.

■ Use a dust mite cover: These special covers fit over your mattress and pillow to create a barrier between you and the dust mites.

■ Vacuum regularly: Vacuuming with a powerful vacuum cleaner will help remove dust mites from carpeting, furniture, and upholstery. Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.

■ Reduce humidity: Dust mites thrive in humid environments. Use a dehumidifier to keep the air in your home dry.

Pet Dander & Fur

Your beloved furry friends can also be a source of fall allergies. If you have pets, you’re probably already aware that you’re allergic to their dander (dead skin cells) and fur.

Dander is light and flaky, so it’s easy to become airborne and end up in your nose, mouth, and lungs. Once there, it can trigger an allergic reaction.

To reduce your exposure to pet dander and fur:

■ Don’t let your pets sleep in your bed: This one is tough for pet lovers, but it’s the best way to reduce your exposure to dander.

■ Bathe your pets often: This will help remove dander and fur from their coat. Use a hypoallergenic shampoo, and try to bathe them at least once a week.

■ Keep them out of your bedroom: If you can’t bear the thought of not snuggling with your furry friend at night, at least keep them out of your bedroom. This is the one room in the house where you should be able to escape pet dander and fur.

■ Clean your house: Vacuum often, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Dust regularly, and wet-mop floors in order to trap dander and fur.

■ Wear a filtering mask: If you’re going to be around pet dander and fur, wear a filtering mask over your nose and mouth. This will help reduce your exposure.

■ Consider hypoallergenic breeds: If you’re thinking about getting a pet, consider hypoallergenic breeds, such as poodles, schnauzers, and terriers. These breeds produce less dander than other dogs and are less likely to trigger allergies.

Final Thoughts

Fall is a time when allergies flare up. But with some knowledge and careful planning, you can minimize your exposure to allergens and enjoy the season. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sneeze-free in no time.

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