This entry was posted on Saturday, September 13th, 2014 and is filed under Blog by AENT Associates
It’s that time of year once again – school is back in session, football kicks off, and the weather finally starts to get cooler. For many, however, fall also means the sneezing and sniffling of ragweed season. So to get you ready for these changes, Houston’s top allergists have put together five things everyone should know about ragweed season.
It is impossible to avoid ragweed pollen.
There are over 17 different types of Ragweed growing across the United States. While some areas are ‘heavier’ than others, Ragweed can be found everywhere.
Close to a quarter of all Americans struggle with an allergy to Ragweed.
Over the counter antihistamines may be enough to manage these symptoms for some, while others will require a more broad approach.
Ragweed season lasts from mid-August through late October.
It can last longer, however. It is also common for the health problems triggered by Ragweed allergies, such as asthma flares or sinus infections, to last far beyond the season.
Ragweed allergies are the result of a body’s overzealous response to microscopic grains of ragweed.
As the immune system kicks in, histamine will be produced. Histamine is the cause of typical allergy symptoms, including itching, sneezing, congestions, hives, and puffy eyes.
Your symptoms may not be from ragweed.
There are more than 10 different types of weeds and Fall Elm trees that pollinate during the fall months. Without having an allergy test in Houston, it is hard to know if your symptoms are the result of pollen, dust mites, or even the family pet.
If you already know that you suffer from fall allergies, act before the symptoms start. Schedule an appointment with your provider to establish a proactive treatment plan. Fill your prescriptions and take all medications as ordered, even if your symptoms haven’t kicked in yet.
Allergy Relief in the Houston Area
To find out more about fall allergies, or to schedule a new patient appointment, contact Allergy and ENT Associates at 281-453-4228. We have 18 Houston area offices, open both early and late, for your convenience. As home to the best allergy doctors in Houston, our experienced providers are your best defense during ragweed season.
