Treat Fall Allergies Before Symptoms Begin

For many people, hay fever is just a minor annoyance. However, for others, persistent allergy symptoms can be truly miserable. As the summer winds down and fall begins, weed pollen becomes the primary cause of allergies. Depending on where you live, the culprits could be ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed, tumbleweed, and cocklebur.

Ragweed: The Biggest Offender

Doctors at Allergy and Asthma Care of New York point out that ragweed is the main offender. Just one ragweed plant can produce up to a billion pollen grains, making it a formidable foe for allergy sufferers.

Preventive Treatment is Key

Most people wait to treat their allergy symptoms until they appear. However, allergists recommend starting treatment before symptoms begin for the best relief. If your allergies kick in around late August, it’s wise to begin your medication regimen before that time and adjust the dosage as the season progresses.

Managing Symptoms

Even if fall allergies are triggered by allergens from another season, the approach to treatment remains the same. Here’s how to manage common symptoms:

• Runny Nose and Sneezing: A prescription nasal corticosteroid can be very effective. Over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin and Allegra are also helpful.
• Itchy, Watery Eyes: Prescription eye drops can stabilize the cells in your eyes that react to allergens, and these drops can usually be used alongside other treatments.
• Multiple Symptoms: Fluticasone propionate (Flonase) is a versatile option that can relieve various symptoms, including those affecting the nose.

Adjusting Medication

Some allergy sufferers feel their antihistamines are losing strength as the season progresses. In reality, their allergies might be worsening, and they may need a higher dosage or additional medication to keep symptoms under control.

Stay Ahead of Fall Allergies

Start treating your symptoms early to enjoy the fall season without the misery of allergies. Consult your doctor to find the right medications and dosages to manage your symptoms effectively. By staying ahead of the game, you can minimize the impact of fall allergies and enjoy the season to the fullest.