What You Should Know About Ragweed Allergies

Health & Medical Blog

As the fall season approaches, so do certain kinds of seasonal allergies. One particular type of seasonal allergy that is common in the fall is a ragweed allergy. Also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, ragweed allergies affect 23 million people in the country.

If you want to better understand this type of allergy, here are some things you should know.

Know the Symptoms

The symptoms of ragweed allergies are very similar to that of the common cold. These symptoms include a runny nose, congestion, watery eyes, sinus pressure, and a loss of smell or taste. Because the symptoms of ragweed allergies are so similar to a cold, it can be hard to determine the reason for the symptoms.

If the symptoms occur during ragweed season, there is a good chance the symptoms are due to ragweed allergies. In most places in the country, ragweed season typically begins toward the end of summer and ends when the first frost occurs in the fall.

Other symptoms associated with ragweed allergies include a scratchy throat, swollen skin under the eyes, and poor quality of sleep. Some people who are allergic to ragweed pollen may develop a painful rash after coming into contact with it. This rash consists of tiny bumps or blisters.

Know How To Manage the Symptoms

If you suffer with ragweed allergies, it is possible to manage the symptoms. While it might not always be possible, one of the best way to manage ragweed allergy symptoms is to avoid ragweed pollen. This means staying indoors when the ragweed pollen count is high. Knowing the pollen count is easy if you have access to the internet. Simply go to a website that shows the pollen count in your area. Pollen counts are measured on a scale from 0 to 12. A high pollen count is between 9.7 and 12.

When the pollen count is high, you will also want to keep your windows closed. If you have to go outside, you should wash your clothes right away when you get back inside. Taking a shower before bedtime can also help get rid of pollen that might be in your hair or on your body. If one of your pets has been outside, you will want to wash your hands after touching them.

Another way to manage the symptoms of ragweed allergies is to stay away from certain foods, such as cucumbers, cantaloupes, zucchini, chamomile tea, sunflower seeds, and honey. These foods contain proteins that are similar to ragweed and can trigger ragweed symptoms after you consume them.

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31 August 2020

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