For the 45 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, fall often brings sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. However, because allergies share many symptoms with the common cold, it can sometimes be difficult to know what you’re dealing with.
Here are a few key differences between allergies and colds:
- Itchy eyes are a common symptom of allergies but not colds.
- Duration: Colds usually last no more than two weeks, while allergies can linger for an entire season or longer.
- Body aches: Unlike allergies, colds often cause body aches.
Common Fall Allergy Triggers
Several allergens tend to peak in the fall, making it a challenging season for allergy sufferers. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Ragweed: Nearly one-quarter of Americans are allergic to ragweed.
- Grasses: Bermuda grass, ryegrass, and Timothy grass can trigger severe allergy symptoms.
- Mold: Both indoor and outdoor molds can affect you in the fall. Outdoor mold thrives in decaying vegetation, such as fallen leaves, especially in moist conditions.
- Other plants: Sagebrush, mugwort, tumbleweed, and Russian thistle are also common fall allergens.
- Pet dander: Dogs and cats can contribute to your symptoms as well.
Treatment Options
If you experience fall allergies, your doctor may recommend medications based on your symptoms. Common treatments include:
- Antihistamines: Help relieve sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose (e.g., Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, Alavert).
- Decongestants: Help alleviate nasal congestion (e.g., Sudafed).
- Nasal sprays: Provide temporary relief for nasal congestion.
- Inhalers and eye drops: Address specific symptoms like asthma or itchy eyes.
- Allergy shots: For more severe allergies, allergy shots may be a solution if other treatments aren’t effective.
Home Remedies
If you prefer more natural remedies, you might find relief from these simple practices:
- Replace Carpet with Hard Flooring: Reduces allergens in the home.
- Identify Triggers: Pay close attention to what causes your symptoms and avoid them when possible.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated and ease congestion.
- Humidify: Use a cool-mist humidifier at night to reduce mold-related symptoms.
- Steam Therapy: Facial steams or hot showers can help loosen congestion.
- HEPA Filters: Consider using HEPA filters in your vacuum and HVAC system.
- Limit Exposure: Pollen counts are typically highest between 5 AM and 10 AM, so try to stay indoors during this time.
Natural Remedies
Some natural supplements and essential oils may provide additional allergy relief:
- Honey: Although not scientifically proven, consuming locally produced honey is believed to reduce sensitivity to local pollen.
- Vitamin C: Can help support the immune system during allergy season.
- Spirulina: Demonstrates anti-allergic properties.
- Stinging Nettle: Acts as a natural antihistamine.
- Quercetin: Found in broccoli, cauliflower, green tea, and citrus fruits, quercetin may help stabilize histamine release.
- Essential Oils: Peppermint, eucalyptus, and frankincense essential oils are believed to reduce allergy symptoms and promote respiratory health.
*A Word of Caution: While natural and home remedies may be effective, they should not be used for severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any new remedies. Oils and other natural remedies may not regulated by the FDA.
While CK Family Services is not a medical agency and does not provide diagnoses or medical advice, we care deeply about the well-being of the families we serve. We understand that health challenges, including seasonal allergies, can affect daily life, and we’re here to support you in any way we can. For more information on how we serve families, visit our home page.
