Fall is a beautiful time of year, with leaves changing colors and temperatures cooling down. However, fall is also the season when many people experience allergy symptoms.

In this article, we’ll discuss what fall allergies are, why they occur, and what you can do to manage your symptoms.

What Are Fall Allergies?

Fall allergies are caused by allergens that are present in the air during the autumn months. These allergens include:.

Pollen from ragweed, grasses, and trees
Mold spores
Dust mites

When these allergens enter your body, your immune system can overreact, causing allergy symptoms such as:.

Sneezing
Coughing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Postnasal drip
Sinus pressure or pain

Why Do Fall Allergies Occur?

Fall allergies are most commonly caused by ragweed pollen, which is released into the air from August to November. Ragweed pollen is a particularly potent allergen, with one plant capable of producing up to one billion pollen grains.

It can travel for hundreds of miles on the wind and can be found in every state in the continental U.S.

Another cause of fall allergies is mold spores, which thrive in fall’s damp and cool conditions. Mold can be found indoors and outdoors, including in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Dust mites are also a common cause of fall allergies. These microscopic bugs live in warm and humid environments and feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and pets. Dust mites are found in bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpeting.

How Can You Manage Fall Allergy Symptoms?

If you’re experiencing fall allergy symptoms, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms:.

1. Avoid Allergens

The best way to manage fall allergies is to avoid the allergens that trigger your symptoms. Here are some tips:.

Stay indoors during peak pollen hours (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Wear a mask when doing yard work
Keep windows closed and use air conditioning
Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity below 50%
Vacuum and dust your home frequently

2. Take Medications

If you can’t avoid allergens, you may need to take medications to manage your symptoms. These medications include:.

Antihistamines, which block the production of histamine (a chemical produced by the body in response to allergens)
Decongestants, which relieve nasal congestion
Intranasal corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
Leukotriene modifiers, which block the action of leukotrienes (chemicals produced by the body that cause inflammation)

If your allergies are severe, your doctor may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy). Allergy shots work by gradually desensitizing your immune system to the allergen, reducing your symptoms over time.

3. Practice Good Self-Care

Practicing good self-care can also help manage fall allergy symptoms. Here are some tips:.

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
Eat a healthy and balanced diet
Get plenty of rest
Exercise regularly
Reduce stress

When to See a Doctor

If your fall allergy symptoms are severe or interfering with your daily life, you should see a doctor. Your doctor can diagnose your allergies and help create a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.

You should also see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, which may indicate a more serious condition:.

Fever
Facial pain or swelling
Ear pain
Wheezing or difficulty breathing
Tightness in the chest

Conclusion

Fall allergies can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to ruin your autumn. By following these tips, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy the season:.