Condition Spotlight
Seasonal allergies, sometimes called “hay fever” or seasonal allergic rhinitis, are allergy symptoms that happen during certain times of the year, usually when outdoor molds release their spores, and trees, grasses, and weeds release tiny pollen particles into the air to fertilize other plants.
Spring is right around the corner and, while many people’s thoughts are turning to spring flowers and shorts, other people’s thoughts are turning to how to get relief from pollen and seasonal allergies. For most Read More
Warmer weather is approaching, and with it comes a new growing season for trees and grass; flowers start to bloom, and pollen hits the air. Although the warmth is a welcome change, the shift from Read More
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, (1) grass and pollen are the most prevalent allergens. When these small particles come into contact with your mouth, nose, or eyes, your body releases Read More
Be prepared to act quickly at the first sign of itchy, watery eyes and sniffles- signs of seasonal allergies. Seasonal Allergy Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? Add “bothersome sneezing and watery eyes” to the Read More
Spring is just around the corner and for many, its arrival signifies an end to hibernation-like habits formed in winter. From physical exercise such as walks, runs or bike rides to social occasions like picnics Read More
n many areas of the United States, seasonal allergies begin in February and last until the early summer. Tree pollination begins earliest in the year followed by grass pollination later in the spring and summer and ragweed in the late summer and fall. In tropical climates, however, grass may pollinate throughout a good portion of the year. Mild winter temperatures can cause plants to pollinate early. A rainy spring can also promote rapid plant growth and lead to an increase in mold, causing symptoms to last well into the fall.
The most common culprit for fall allergies is ragweed, a plant that grows wild almost everywhere, but especially on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Ragweed blooms and releases pollen from August to November. In many areas of the country, ragweed pollen levels are highest in early to mid-September.
Other plants that trigger fall allergies include:
- Burning bush
- Cocklebur
- Lamb’s-quarters
- Pigweed
- Sagebrush and mugwort
- Tumbleweed and Russian thistle
The immune systems of people who are allergic to mold spores or pollen treat these particles (called allergens) as invaders and release chemicals, including histamine, into the bloodstream to defend against them. It’s the release of these chemicals that causes seasonal allergies symptoms.
