As the leaves change and temperatures drop, fall allergy season is just around the corner. Many people experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and other uncomfortable symptoms during this time. Understanding the main fall allergy triggers and how to manage them can help you enjoy the season with less discomfort.

Common Fall Allergy Triggers

Ragweed: Ragweed is one of the most common culprits, with pollen production peaking in late summer and lasting through fall. Even a small amount of ragweed pollen can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Mold: Mold spores thrive in damp conditions, especially after fall rains. Mold can be found both indoors and outdoors, particularly in basements, bathrooms, and around piles of fallen leaves.
Dust Mites: These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid environments and are commonly found in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.
Other Weeds: While ragweed is the most well-known, other weeds such as pigweed, cocklebur, lamb’s quarter, and goldenrod can also contribute to allergy symptoms.
Pet Dander: If you have pets, their dander can worsen fall allergies, especially in households where pets spend time on beds and furniture.
Smoke: Smoke from wildfires, fireplaces, or outdoor burning can irritate nasal passages and exacerbate allergy symptoms.

Tips for Managing Fall Allergies

Limit Outdoor Exposure: Check daily pollen and mold counts and try to minimize outdoor activities when levels are high.
Keep Indoor Air Clean: Use HEPA air purifiers and clean your home with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter to reduce allergens.
Manage Indoor Humidity: Maintain indoor humidity levels around 40–50% to discourage mold and dust mites.
Control Mold: Clean bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas regularly, and fix any leaks or moisture problems promptly.
Change Heating Filters: Replace furnace filters regularly and consider using HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergens.
Rake Leaves: Removing fallen leaves promptly prevents mold growth and helps minimize outdoor allergen exposure.
Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays can help control symptoms and improve daily comfort.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): For persistent symptoms that don’t respond to medications, immunotherapy can offer long-term relief by gradually desensitizing the immune system to allergens.

Take Action Early

Preparing for fall allergies now can make a big difference in how you feel during the season. By understanding your triggers and taking preventive steps, you can reduce discomfort and enjoy the crisp, colorful days of fall.

For persistent or severe allergy symptoms, schedule a visit with an allergy or ENT specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan.