Fall Allergies in Brooklyn: Why September Can Be So Tough

Ragweed, mold and changing indoor exposures can make fall a surprisingly difficult allergy season.

Sneezing? Congested? Itchy eyes? Coughing or wheezing?
It may not be a cold. Fall allergy season is here.

Spring gets most of the attention, but late summer and fall can be just as challenging for people with seasonal allergies. Ragweed is a major fall trigger and typically releases pollen from August into the fall, often reaching its highest levels around September. Outdoor mold spores can also contribute, especially around fallen leaves and damp vegetation.

Common Signs of Fall Allergies

·       Sneezing, runny nose or nasal congestion

·       Itchy, watery or red eyes

·       Postnasal drip, throat irritation or cough

·       Sinus pressure or headaches

·       Worsening asthma, including cough, chest tightness or wheezing

Why Are My Allergies Worse in the Fall?

For many patients, ragweed and other weed pollens are the main culprits. Ragweed pollen can travel through the air and may trigger symptoms even when you do not see ragweed growing nearby. Mold can also become a problem around piles of leaves and other damp outdoor material. As temperatures change and we spend more time indoors, year-round allergens such as dust mites and pet dander may become more noticeable as well.

Don't Guess - Find Out What You're Allergic To

If the same symptoms return every year, allergy testing can help identify whether pollen, mold, dust mites, pets or another allergen is contributing. Knowing your triggers allows your allergist to build a more targeted plan rather than simply adding another medication whenever symptoms flare.

THINK BEYOND ANTIHISTAMINES

Why Fall Is a Good Time to Consider Allergy Shots or Allergy Drops

If you find yourself repeating the same cycle every allergy season - antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops and still feeling miserable - it may be worth discussing allergen immunotherapy.

Allergen immunotherapy is different from medication because it is designed to gradually reduce your immune system's sensitivity to the allergens that trigger your symptoms. Allergy shots are an established long-term treatment for allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma, and some patients experience lasting symptom improvement after completing therapy.

Allergy Shots (SCIT)

Allergy shots can be customized according to your allergy evaluation and testing. They may be used for multiple environmental allergens, including tree, grass and weed pollens, dust mites, molds and pet allergens. Treatment begins with a build-up phase using gradually increasing doses, followed by a maintenance phase once the effective dose is reached.

Allergy Drops (SLIT)

For some patients who prefer a needle-free option, sublingual immunotherapy may be considered. With liquid allergy drops, allergen is placed under the tongue according to an individualized treatment plan. Liquid sublingual allergy drops are used off-label in the United States and are not FDA-approved. FDA-approved sublingual immunotherapy tablets are available for certain specific allergens. Your allergist can discuss which options may be appropriate for you.

Why Talk About Immunotherapy Now?

Because immunotherapy takes time. Allergy shots generally require a build-up period before maintenance is reached, and improvement develops gradually. Rather than waiting until next spring when symptoms are already in full swing, fall is a practical time to identify your triggers, discuss your options and begin a longer-term allergy strategy. If ragweed is one of your triggers, fall symptoms can also be a useful reminder to make a plan for future seasons.

5 Things You Can Do Right Now

1.       Check pollen levels. On high-pollen days, consider limiting prolonged outdoor exposure.

2.       Keep pollen outside. Keep windows closed when counts are high and change clothes after spending significant time outdoors.

3.       Shower before bed. Washing your hair and skin can reduce pollen brought into the bedroom.

4.       Be careful with fallen leaves. Leaf piles and damp vegetation can harbor mold.

5.       Treat asthma symptoms seriously. If fall brings more coughing, wheezing, nighttime symptoms or increased rescue inhaler use, contact your healthcare provider.

DON'T JUST GET THROUGH THIS ALLERGY SEASON.
MAKE A PLAN FOR THE NEXT ONE.

Get tested. Know your triggers. Ask whether allergy shots or allergy drops may be right for you.

Allergy & Asthma Care of Brooklyn  |  brooklynallergydr.com