What’s the Difference Between Fall and Spring Allergies?

What’s the Difference Between Fall and Spring Allergies?

Symptoms of the common cold also double as symptoms allergies including a stuffy nose, the sniffles, a cough, and itchy eyes.  It can be hard to tell if these symptoms are signs that you are coming down with a virus or if you are just struggling with allergies.  This is particularly true because seasonal allergies can strike at any time but are particularly common during the spring and the fall.  In the fall, many people assume that the cooling temperatures are responsible for their “cold symptoms” but they may actually be suffering from fall allergies.  Fall and spring allergies may have similar symptoms but there are actually distinct differences between the two allergies.

Some people are more affected by spring allergies than fall allergies or the reverse.  And unfortunately, for some, they experience symptoms during both allergy seasons.  Generally speaking, spring allergies tend to be from tree pollen.  This is because trees that have been dormant during the winter begin to grow and flourish again and temperatures warm and as they blossom the pollen in the air can trigger allergy symptoms.  And, even as tree pollen counts begin to diminish towards the end of the season, allergy sufferers may feel their symptoms reemerge or continue because grass pollen counts increase as grass begins to grow.  To continue, fall allergies tend to be from weed pollen and some types of mold.  Ragweed, in particular, is a common allergy trigger because it is very prevalent throughout many regions in the fall.

So, what’s an allergy sufferer to do?  The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology recommends that you get tested and know what allergy triggers you have, arm yourself with allergy-fighting tools like medications and avoiding triggers, “Ragweed pollen and mold spores can float in the air and linger on fallen leaves. After spending time outdoors, shower and change and wash your clothes. Clean your nasal passages, too, by using a salt water rinse. While working outdoors, wear a pollen mask, such as a NIOSH-rated 95 filter mask. Be sure to also keep your car and home windows closed.”  Depending on your specific allergy symptoms and what triggers your symptoms you may benefit from allergy shots ad daily preventive allergy medication.  Additionally, cleaning your home thoroughly, utilizing a dehumidifier, a vacuum with a HEPA filter, frequent vacuuming and more may help reduce allergy triggers within your home.  If you are suffering from fall or spring allergies, speak to your physician about getting the medication and treatments you need to reduce allergy symptoms and get back to enjoying life.