Fall is here, and with it are seasonal allergies.
Dr. Andy Nish, Medical Director with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Allergy and Asthma said there's an old adage about seasonal allergies.
"With spring being mostly trees and fall being mostly weeds, although there's more overlap than we might think is there," said Nish. "But for the fall, we have mostly ragweed."
There's a giant ragweed and a short ragweed, but regardless of the type, Nish said it spreads well. "One ragweed plant can produce one billion - billion with a 'b' - one billion allergens, if you will, pieces of pollen that are then released into the air. So when people are allergic to ragweed, it's not at all a surprise."
Other common weed allergens include Lamb's Quarters, pig weed, mugwort, and Russian thistle. Out west, Nish said tumbleweed was another common allergen. He also said some trees are pollinating this time of year, so those allergic to trees may also experience symptoms.
Nish said common symptoms of allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal congestion; those with asthma may have wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
He also said certain symptoms are more likely to be a sign of a virus, like COVID-19, especially if there's a fever or chills. "Even though the allergies are called hay fever, it's hardly ever you have a fever with those," said Nish. Other symptoms of a virus are cough, body aches, and nausea and vomiting. Nish said headaches and sore throats may come with either allergies or COVID-19.
Nish said there are a few ways to handle allergies this fall. First, avoid your allergen. That includes closing your windows when you drive or are at home, and exercising or spending time outdoors in the later afternoon instead of morning. The next option is using over the counter medications, including anti-histamines and nasal steroids, to combat symptoms. Lastly, he suggested getting allergy shots from your doctor.
