SATURDAY, Oct. 14, 2023 (HealthDay News) — While the hot, dry summer may have provided some respite for people with certain environmental allergies, that respite may be over.
Ragweed and mold are in the air this fall.
“This summer has been good news for those with mold and pollen sensitivities because there are virtually no these allergens in the air, but now that we’re seeing increased rainfall following the drought, we’re experiencing giant ragweed and mold Baylor College of Medicine Immunity said Dr. David Corey, professor in the Department of Medicine, Allergy and Rheumatology.
Corey points out that it’s not always easy to tell the difference between fall allergies and seasonal viruses.
Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
Sore throat and discomfort are classic symptoms of viruses, such as the flu or cold.
Corey said that while the body may have extreme reactions to sudden exposure to large amounts of pollen or mold, including pain, these are only temporary.
Flu and cold tests can help determine illness.
Fall activities that may cause allergies include bales of hay in the pumpkin patch, since these bales are made from grasses that many people are allergic to. Hay riders should also watch for signs of mold, such as black streaks or a bad, damp odor.
“Mold spores can become lodged in the upper respiratory tract, causing allergy symptoms, and the infection can lead to more serious conditions such as sinusitis. If mold spores get into your lower respiratory tract, you may develop asthma,” Corey said in a university news release Said at the meeting. “We’re seeing this in tropical humid environments and seeing patients starting to experience allergic symptoms to allergens they didn’t have before.”
Corey recommends nasal allergy sprays and over-the-counter antihistamines. If symptoms persist, take twice daily.
Using a neti pot, squeeze bottle, or electronic machine to flush your sinuses with distilled or saline water may also help. He recommends seeing an allergist for extra help with symptoms.
“Allergy shots can be helpful, but by seeing an allergist, we can check for conditions like nasal congestion, nasal polyps, or sleep apnea, or start immunotherapy,” Corey says.
More information
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology has more information about seasonal allergies.
Source: Baylor College of Medicine, press release, October 10, 2023