Allergy Attack

As summer transitions to fall, 2 abundant allergens will return: ragweed and mold. Those allergic to ragweed may experience hay fever symptoms including eye irritation, runny nose, puffy eyes, sneezing, and itchy nose and throat.

Mold growth doubles by summer’s end, causing itchy and runny nose, nasal congestion, dizziness, eye irritation, blurred vision, sneezing, and sinusitis. To lessen the impact of fall allergens:

• Take over–the–counter allergy medication, preferably non–drowsy
• Increase your antioxidant intake, especially vitamin C
• Change furnace filters (which trap allergens) at least every 6 months
• Use a dehumidifier or run the air conditioning, as mold thrives in humid areas
• Stay inside during the early morning, which are peak pollen hours
• When returning from outside, change your clothes and take a shower
• Check the pollen count in your area daily.