Fall doesn’t officially begin until later in the month, but for many, the itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing and coughing that accompany the fall allergy season are already here.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimates that more than 35 million Americans have seasonal allergies. While some people outgrow allergies that bothered them in childhood, other people develop allergies as adults. The academy has also released a list of the top 10 fall allergy capitals in the U.S. and names Wichita as No. 10 on the list. Knoxville, Tenn., and Louisville, Ky., top the list.
In Kansas, the dust from fall harvest and pollen from plants such as Goldenrod and Ragweed, causes allergy sufferers the most grief, said Director of Respiratory Care for Memorial Hospital Glenn Tammen. Mold and trees are also among the offenders. Exposure to many of these plants and allergens are difficult to avoid because seeds and dust can carry hundreds of miles in the wind. The dry, windy weather the area has experienced also contributed to the suffering. And the colorful leaves that make fall photo-worthy also become a source of mold.
The only thing that provides real relief for allergy sufferers is the first frost of the year, which is most often in October.
Treatments
Treating symptoms and limiting their exposure to allergens are really the only two ways allergy sufferers can find relief. Over-the-counter medications do prove effective in most situations. These drugs include antihistamines, which counteract the effects of histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines are available as pills, nasal sprays and eye drops. For maximum benefit, start using antihistamines at the onset of symptoms.
If necessary, nasal steroids, available only by prescription, can be prescribed to reduce nasal inflammation, thereby relieving congestion, runny nose and sneezing.
More aggressive treatment is available for severe allergy symptoms.
Tammen also suggested drinking plenty of fluids and simply avoiding the outdoors when possible, especially during the late morning and early afternoon hours.
Leading a healthy lifestyle- including maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking and eating a balanced diet, also help the body build resistance to allergens.
