That May Not Be a Cold, Could Be Fall Allergies
Ragweed, mold most common allergens this time of year.
Many parents complain that as soon as school starts, their child inevitably catches a cold. But, while kids do swap their fair share of germs during the school day, not every runny nose stems from a cold -- often, those sneezy symptoms are the result of fall allergies.
When school starts, most parents think a runny nose has to be a cold, but a lot of times it's really hay fever caused by ragweed. And, in the Midwest this year, another allergen -- mold -- is an even bigger problem than it usually is. In fact, mold counts have been so high that air quality alerts have been issued.
Another concern: Allergy sufferers living in or near areas where corn is being harvested may be experiencing more allergies right now because corn is a member of the grass family, and grass allergies are common.
But, in most areas of the country, ragweed is the most common fall allergen. And ragweed often causes suffering until the first hard frost occurs.
Why is ragweed such a problem? Well, just one plant can produce up to one billion pollen grains. And those grains are very light and travel easily. Depending on where you live, symptoms may start in early August and they can last through October.
Symptoms of fall allergies are similar to those seen in the spring and may include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, headache, sinus pain and pressure, and increased asthma symptoms. Ragweed allergies can sometimes cause hives on the skin.
Ideally, people with allergies should start taking their allergy medicines before symptoms begin. Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Allegra, Claritin and Zyrtec, are usually good at controlling allergy symptoms. Some people also benefit from the addition of a steroid nasal spray that helps shrink swollen nasal tissue.
Keeping windows closed, and filtering your indoor air with an air conditioner. It's a good idea to stay indoors if you can when the pollen counts are high. Taking a shower when you come into your home, or before bed, to get the pollen out of your hair and off your skin.
And, both experts recommended taking allergy and asthma medications on a regular schedule.
If mold is an issue for you, to check your yard for any standing water because it will encourage mold growth. The same goes for decaying leaves in your yard or gutters. If possible, to remove the leaves for you and wear a mask while you're working. If you have mold inside your home, he said that a solution of bleach and water can kill mold spores.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services
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