Fighting fall allergies as the weather shifts
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The leaves changing colors is a sign that the fall season is here.
But so does the sound of sneezing, another sign of fall allergies.
"It comes down basically caused by ragweed pollen," Dr. Praveen Buddiga, an allergist and immunologist in northeast Fresno. "When it gets a little damp and you notice the temperature change, mold tends to sit on the fallen leaves."
That shift in weather can impact people dealing with the condition.
"People show symptoms of itchy eyes, runny noses," said Dr. Buddiga. "Very similar to spring allergies, throat congestion."
Dr. Buddiga adds that a mild cough is also a symptom of fall allergies. At his clinic in northeast Fresno, he says because the seasons are getting longer, he's noticing symptoms are starting earlier.
"Almost at the end of August to the first weeks of September, I've been seeing fall allergies," said Dr. Buddiga. "Ragweed is blooming, basically causing allergies in both children and adults."
Dr. Buddiga says fall allergies tend to peak around the end of October and beginning of November. He adds that older adults and younger children living with asthma are most vulnerable especially when the temperature changes.
"Their lung tissue tends to constrict, so it makes it harder for them to breathe in and out," said Dr. Buddiga. "Those are the times they should be using their inhaler."
But there are ways to fight fall allergies, such as using nasal sprays or taking antihistamines. Doctors also offer this suggestion.
"Especially for pollen, ragweed pollen or dust, is to use a sinus rinse," said Dr. Buddiga. "It's kind of like cleaning your nasal passages because that's where most of the pollen tends to accumulate."
He adds that purifiers with HEPA filters are also a big help. Health experts say living with fall allergies should not affect your day to day life, but if you notice your symptoms getting worse, see your doctor right away.
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