Fall allergies tax the immune system, and can generally make us feel lousy. Need relief from the fall sniffles? Here are a few evidence-based interventions that might actually help:
Fall allergens
- Weed pollen, including ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed, tumbleweed (Russian thistle) and cocklebur
- Mold from decaying leaves and other dying foliage
- Pet dander and dust mites
Change your environment
- Wash comforters and blankets, vacuum mattresses and box springs, change pillows, and clean your vents
- Clean your furnace and install a fresh filter
- Vacuum your carpets to get rid of dust mites and pet dander
- Keep the windows closed
- Ask a friend or family member to rake leaves
- Use a dehumidifier
- Use mold-proof paint
- Clean dark areas, like the cabinets under your sink
Change your diet
- Eat fresh, unprocessed foods
- Drink plenty of water
- Take a complex B vitamin, C vitamin or multivitamin daily
- Avoid cantaloupe if you are allergic to ragweed
- Enjoy locally harvested honey to decrease sensitivity to environmental allergens
Treatment options
When lifestyle changes don’t work, try:
- Over-the-counter symptom relievers that reduce the histamine response to allergens
- Steroids
- Acupuncture
Keep in mind that the fall allergy season will eventually pass”into spring allergy season. We’ll discuss spring allergy management in March.
