Why Are My Allergies Worse in the Fall?
By: Dr. Jake Livingston
The days are getting a bit cooler and shorter, and for many, that means the start of Fall allergy symptoms. As opposed to Spring when tree and grass pollens cause problems, the culprit in Fall is mostly weeds. Molds can also thrive in damp piles of leaves and can be an indoor allergen along with house dust in more humid areas and ductwork.
Avoidance is a great first line way to conservatively treat allergies, with measures like wearing a mask when raking leaves, using an air purifier in common areas of the house, vacuuming frequently, and washing bedding at least weekly in hot water.
Over the counter therapies include antihistamine medications like Allegra and Zyrtec, although Zyrtec can cause drowsiness in some. Antihistamine nasal sprays like Astepro are also available over the counter now, as is a shorter acting spray called NasalCrom. Plenty of people get excellent benefit from saline nasal irrigations – many different devices are available at the drug store and online.
If these measures fail to adequately control symptoms, then further evaluation with an ENT or Allergist may be useful. Allergies will typically cause symptoms like a clear runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes and throat, and nasal blockage. This will typically be on both sides – one sided symptoms, thicker discolored drainage, or persistent pressure in the face and sinuses might be more suggestive of chronic infection.
Seeing a Specialist can help determine which specific allergens are the biggest triggers and help identify if there are other factors besides allergies that are making symptoms more difficult to control. There are many other prescription medications and therapies available to help allergy sufferers enjoy the Fall season!
Dr. Livingston is a partner in ENT Associates of Alabama, practicing in the Alabaster office.
