For some Atlanta residents with hay fever, the beginning of fall is a welcome break from their allergies. Unfortunately, for many others fall signals a new peak allergy season, causing sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and other issues. As with all allergies, understanding the causes and symptoms of the condition is key to tackling it successfully. So what allergens should you be aware of this fall?
What Are the Most Common Allergies During the Fall?
The only way to be absolutely sure of the cause of your allergies is through testing conducted by an allergist. To help with the allergy testing process, pay attention to any contact you have with the following common allergens.
Ragweed
Ragweed is the most common allergy during the fall. Ragweed allergies can last a few months from the end of summer and into fall, causing symptoms like a runny nose, cough, congestion, itching mouth and throat, watery eyes and sneezing. For people living with asthma, ragweed can also trigger adverse reactions.
Tree Allergies
Tree allergies are commonly associated with spring and the early part of summer. However, allergies to different types of tree pollen can persist into the fall months. In addition, people who suffer from tree allergies in the spring frequently react to ragweed (and other weed species) that pollinate in late summer and fall.
Mold
Mold allergies typically begin in summer and into fall, with fungus spores growing both inside and outside. Damp areas in the home (such as moisture in the basement), piles of leaves outside, rotting logs and so on all provide an environment for mold to grow, and exposure to the allergen can exacerbate allergies.
Dust Mites
Fall is also a difficult time for people with dust mite allergies. A combination of warm air, poor ventilation and damp conditions can result in dust spreading throughout a home or work environment.
Fall Allergy Triggers in Georgia
For residents of Georgia in the fall, pollen from weeds, grasses and trees is spread across long distances. In Fulton County for example, annual ragweed and great ragweed trigger allergies during September, October and November. Groundsel tree, Bermuda grass and perennial ryegrass also cause aggravation for people with pollen allergies.
Effective Treatments for Fall Allergies
As mentioned, allergy testing is integral to properly treating fall allergies. Skin prick testing will identify the precise tree, grass, weed and other allergens triggering a reaction. With a diagnosis, your allergist can then develop a sinusitis treatment plan. In many cases, allergy and sinus infection treatments involve a combination of antihistamines, corticosteroids, or allergy shots to desensitize the immune system.
Professional Fall Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment in Georgia
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is the home of allergy diagnosis and treatment in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. We help patients tackle allergy issues for a better quality of life. Call us at (678) 668-4688 for a consultation or request an appointment today.
