Fighting Fall Allergies: How to Deal with Ragweed and Other Autumn Nuisances

By Marie Cauley

You don’t have to be miserable this season – use these ideas to fight those allergies!

It seems like summer just started about a month ago, but time has flown by, and autumn is almost here. Fall is one of our favorite seasons for a variety of reasons: cooler, crisper weather; apple and pumpkin season; the colorful fall foliage; and hayrides and other fun activities. But autumn can also cause problems for those who have seasonal allergies, making it more difficult to enjoy all of these things. Ragweed pollen and mold spores are the worst offenders at this time of year.

So what can you do to get a handle on your allergies so you can get the most out of the season?  Here are some tips to help you feel better:

1. After you’ve spent time outside, remove outerwear and shoes as soon as you get in the house to prevent the spread of pollen. Shower immediately to get rid of the pollen from your hair and skin.
2. According to Medical News Today, pollen is released in the early morning. If possible, avoid being outside until later in the morning.
3. Keep windows shut in your car and home, and use air conditioning if you can. To find out what the pollen count is in your area on any given day, check the National Allergy Bureau.
4. Wash all bedding on a weekly basis in hot water to get rid of any pollen and dust mites that may have collected.
5. If you have pets, bathe them at least once a week to reduce dander and any irritants they may have brought into the house.
6. As plants and leaves decay before winter, they release mold spores. Mildew can also form as moisture seeps into your home. Check your windows and doorways, and reseal and caulk any problem areas.
7. Install exhaust fans in your laundry room and bathrooms, if you don’t have them already, to reduce moisture.
8. Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.  Certain ones can carry ragweed on their skins, so to be safe, clean them all. Cleaning them will also help to wash away any pesticides.
9. Dr. Bruce Gordon, allergy specialist at Cape Cod Hospital, recommends wearing some type of mask when you rake leaves. Otherwise, you could inhale mold spores.
10. If there is too much moisture in your home, use a humidifier.
11. Over-the-counter allergy remedies may help, but if your allergies persist or are severe, please see your doctor or an allergist to determine the best treatment plan for you.

You don’t have to suffer in silence or avoid fall activities completely. Follow some or all of these tips so you can enjoy life and autumn fun.  Have a happy and healthy fall season … and remember, you’ll feel even better after the first frost!

Marie Cauley is a freelance writer who also pens inspirational romance with hopes of soon being published. Her interests include health, music, dance, spinning, and Pilates.  You can also check out her blog http://www.mtclosetowin.blogspot.com where she writes about faith, fitness…and the connection between them.