A change in seasons is exciting.
The colors change and so do temperatures. You can wear sweaters and scarves . You can drink pumpkin spice lattes. And seasonal changes also bring holidays and family traditions.
While seasonal switches have perks, the change can also bring some challenges.
Pollution and airborne substances may blow in with cooler weather, irritating your nose and eyes. Pollen, dust and other sneezy substances can also make it hard to breathe. You may have less energy levels.
Ragweed pollen causes more allergic reactions than most anything else during fall months. If you are allergic to pollen during the spring, you have a higher chance for a reaction to ragweed. During warm days and cool nights in August through October, wind often scatters the pollen.
Pollen can also be ingested when certain foods are eaten raw. Bananas, melons, cucumbers, zucchini, beans, celery and some fruits often carry ragweed pollen.
Combat Allergies
When sneezes, itchy watery eyes or a runny nose suddenly appear, allergies may be to blame. But while we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, if you are experiencing sudden symptoms, it’s good to get tested for COVID-19.
If you have allergies in the fall, you can:
- Avoid going outdoors when you’re having allergies
- Keep home humidity levels low
- Clean your home regularly – sweep or vacuum floors, dust furniture and wash windows (wear a mask to keep particles from entering your nose)
- Wash bedding in hot water at least once a /week
- Consider buying an air purifier
- Discuss allergy medications and shots with your medical provider
Allergies affect everyone differently. Some people can escape the season with a few sneezes here and there, while others get completely knocked off their feet.
If you have those symptoms you need to rule out the possibility of having COVID-19. Consult your primary care doctor and wear a mask around others until you are sure you “only” have allergies.
Enjoy the upcoming cooler weather! Spend time outside admiring colorful autumn leaves and sipping a cup of coffee or hot tea. Do the things that you love to do instead of staying inside clutching a box of tissues.