The Most Common Fall Allergy Triggers
Sneezing, sniffling and congestion are common seasonal allergy symptoms. While allergens are typically associated with the spring, many people are surprised to learn that as the leaves change they can also experience similar symptoms. Do you suffer from fall allergies? Get to know the main culprits of your symptoms below.
While spring allergies are typically triggered by tree pollen, weeds are to blame for your allergy attacks in the fall. Ragweed, mugwort sage, and English plantain are among the most common fall-blooming weeds, which are to blame for much of your suffering. Their pollen is much harder to see, and just a small amount of granules may send your body into an allergic response. Allergists suggest minimizing your exposure to the outside as much as possible, and showering once you re-enter your home after being outside.
The real source of pet allergies is your pet’s dander—which is all over their fur. Pets also carry outdoor allergens into the home. The Humane Society of America recommends bathing your pets at least once a week to remove allergy triggers, creating a Safe Zone where pets are not allowed, and running a HEPA style air purifier everywhere else to capture airborne dander.
As the leaves change and the temperature drops, we tend to spend more time snuggled up indoors. While it may be more comfortable, being inside exposes you more to the number-one indoor allergen—dust mites, which are microscopic bugs that thrive in warm, humid areas like upholstery or bedding. Leaving your bed unmade during the day can remove moisture from the sheets and mattress, dehydrating and killing dust mites. By reducing the amount of dust mites in your bedding and running an air purifier to capture airborne dust allergens, you can relieve your allergy symptoms and breathe easier while you sleep.
Mold is a vital part of nature, as it helps break down fallen leaves during the fall. While it serves this important purpose, it also releases millions of mold spores as it grows. With leaves covering much of the ground during the fall season, mold counts tend to soar during this time, triggering miserable allergy symptoms for many people. Similar to pollen, it is important to limit your time outdoors and shower after returning indoors to prevent mold from entering your home. Also, removing your shoes when entering the home can safeguard your home further, as moldy leaves may stick to the bottom of your shoes.
Cockroaches may seem like a unique fall trigger. However, pests like these are common triggers as their droppings can irritate allergy symptoms. The best way to control this allergen is to rid your home of these insects by cleaning and making sure your food is secure and stored away.
Are you interested in finding relief from your fall allergies? Visit Alen's Best Air Purifiers for Allergies or call an Air Quality Specialist (800-630-2396) to find the best solution for your needs.
1. New York Magazine, Fall Allergy Enemies
2. DukeHealth.com, Fall Allergies: Tiny Pollen Grains, Big Allergy Problems
3. Project Allergy, Behold the Fall Mold