Why Are Your Allergies Worse In The Fall?
For most allergy sufferers, symptoms are worst in the spring when pollen starts flying. So when fall rolls in and your eyes start itching overtime, you may wonder what's wrong with you. Why are your allergy symptoms worst in the fall, rather than in the springtime? There are several possible explanations, such as:
You're allergic to ragweed.
It's true that most plants release their pollen in the springtime, but ragweed is the exception. It starts releasing its pollen in the fall -- usually around mid-September. The pollen may linger for a few weeks, causing ongoing symptoms. Plus, if it makes its way into your home and car, you may keep feeling itchy and sneezy even after the pollen counts drop again because you're coming into contact with the pollen in these areas.
Ragweed allergies are known as hay fever, and they are quite common. It's also common for hay fever to develop later in life, so even if you have never experienced it in the past, it is a likely explanation for your sudden fall allergy symptoms.
You're allergic to mold spores.
People with mold allergies also suffer from flare-ups in the fall. When temperatures drop, moisture tends to settle out of the air, which means your home's floors, walls, and ceilings may get a little moist. This triggers mold growth, and the mold spores are easily spread throughout your home once you turn the heat on and the air starts blowing around.
Do your symptoms get worse after you've spent more time in your home? Are they worse in the morning, after you've slept in your house, than they are when you first get home at night? If so, this points to a mold allergy.
You're allergic to leaves.
Some people are allergic to certain components in fall leaves. If your allergies tend to be worst after you spend time outside, and especially after raking leaves, this is the most likely explanation. Of course, if there is ragweed in the area, it's also possible that you're allergic to ragweed and some of its pollen has fallen on the leaves.
Since it can be hard to tell which fall allergen is to blame for your misery, your best choice is to have allergy testing done. Your allergy doctor can test you for allergies to mold, leaves, and ragweed. Once you know which allergen is to blame, you'll have an easier time avoiding that substance.
Contact an allergy testing service for more information and assistance.