As autumn arrives, so do fall allergies. Ragweed and other types of pollen make allergic reactions both common and severe during the autumn months.
As the weather gets cooler in different parts of the United States, many Americans may begin experiencing symptoms that they believe signify the common cold, but are in fact a reaction to fall allergens.
According to Illinois news source WGEM.com, ragweed pollen is in full effect, causing people to suffer from symptoms that may include sneezing, a runny nose and itchy eyes. Although these allergens typically begin invading the air in mid-August, the news outlet reports that many individuals don't start having reactions until the temperature cools down a bit.
"For most people, the allergies do fine in the summer when it's hot and humid because their windows are shut," Dr. Gary Carpenter of the Quincy Medical Group told the source. "The secret is keeping your windows shut. Of course, most people like to open their windows in the spring and fall and that's letting allergens into the house."
If you think you're allergic to ragweed pollen, experts recommend scheduling an appointment with your doctor to find out about treatments that may be available.
Fall allergies are here to stay — whether we like it or not. Fortunately, there are actions that people can take at home to prevent their symptoms from getting out of control. Since modern structures are so tightly insulated, a number of irritants — including ragweed pollen — can more easily become trapped inside when you keep your windows open or come and go frequently. That being said, many allergy sufferers find significant relief from Air Purifiers Direct 2U's bedroom air purifiers, which eliminate pollutants from the air and prevent them from exacerbating symptoms.