Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Q1. Why do you say fall is an underrated allergy season?
A: People often associate allergies with spring, but fall can be just as severe—sometimes worse—especially for those sensitive to ragweed, mold, and dust mites. Many patients are caught off guard, assuming allergy season ends with summer, which leaves them unprepared.
Q2. What are the most common triggers of fall allergies?
A: Ragweed is the biggest culprit, but other allergens like mold spores from decaying leaves, dust mites, and pet dander also cause symptoms. These allergens spike as people spend more time indoors and as weather patterns shift.
Q3. How long does the fall allergy season typically last?
A: It usually runs from mid-August until the first frost. In some parts of the country, ragweed can continue releasing pollen into November, especially as climate change delays the onset of colder weather.
Q4. What symptoms should people watch out for during fall allergy season?
A: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, postnasal drip, sinus pressure, and fatigue are common. Allergies can also cause rashes like eczema or hives and in more severe cases, trigger asthma attacks or breathing issues.
Q5. Can fall allergies affect sleep and daily energy levels?
A: Absolutely. Allergies can cause nasal congestion, coughing, and discomfort that disrupt sleep. Some allergy medications may also cause drowsiness.The result is often daily fatigue during peak allergy season.
Q6. How do fall allergies impact mental health and productivity?
A: Chronic symptoms like fatigue and poor sleep can lead to irritability, brain fog, and even depression. Allergies significantly reduce quality of life—people miss work, struggle to concentrate, and feel emotionally drained.
Q7. Are fall allergies getting worse over time?
A: Yes, largely due to climate change. Warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide levels are extending pollen seasons and intensifying their severity. That’s why patients often say, “This is the worst allergy season yet.”
Q8. How can people tell the difference between allergies and a cold or COVID-19?
A: Allergies last longer—often weeks—whereas viral illnesses like colds or COVID appear suddenly and resolve within a shorter timeframe. Allergies typically don’t cause fevers or body aches. Itchy eyes, nose, or throat are more specific to allergies.
Q9. Why is fall such a dangerous time for asthma sufferers?
A: Fall allergens like ragweed and mold can easily trigger asthma symptoms. Emergency room visits spike in mid-to-late September, often referred to as “peak week.” Asthma-related deaths also tend to rise in the fall if symptoms are unmanaged.
Q10. What red flags should someone with allergies and asthma never ignore?
A: Waking up coughing or short of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, or getting winded from light activity may signal poorly controlled asthma. These should immediately prompt a visit to your doctor or allergist.
Q11. What basic steps can people take at home to reduce fall allergy exposure?
A: Keep windows closed on high-pollen days, use HEPA filters, vacuum and dust regularly, shower and change clothes after being outdoors, and keep pets out of bedrooms. These small changes help limit allergens inside your home.
Q12. Are medications still the first line of defense?
A: Yes. Intranasal steroids, oral antihistamines, and eye drops can be very effective. I caution against long-term use of decongestants like Afrin—they can cause rebound congestion. Neti pots help relieve symptoms, but they don’t treat the underlying allergy.
Q13. When should someone see an allergist?
A: If symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter meds, or if allergies interfere with your daily life or sleep, it’s time to see a board-certified allergist. We can run tests to identify triggers and personalize your treatment.
Q14. Can you explain immunotherapy for fall allergies?
A: Immunotherapy gradually desensitizes your body to allergens. It’s offered as allergy shots or sublingual tablets. Both are effective long-term solutions for treating ragweed, dust mites, and more. Starting treatment before peak season gives the best results.
Q15. What message do you want people to take away about fall allergies?
A: Don’t underestimate fall allergies. They’re real, chronic medical conditions that deserve proper care. Early treatment improves comfort and can help prevent more serious complications like asthma attacks.
