Fall Allergies Can Start Early: What to Know

When you think of seasonal allergies, spring may be the first season that comes to mind. But across the South, August can bring a new mix of allergy triggers — even while some summer allergens are still hanging around.

Late-summer weeds, especially ragweed, begin releasing pollen that can trigger symptoms into the fall. At the same time, grasses may still be contributing to symptoms in some areas. And our warm, humid Southern climate means mold can be an allergy trigger throughout much of the year.

If you suddenly find yourself sneezing, congested or reaching for the tissues, seasonal allergies could be to blame.

Is It Allergies or a Summer Cold?

A stuffy or runny nose can make it easy to assume you've caught a cold, but certain symptoms may point toward allergies instead.

Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include:

• Sneezing

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Itchy nose or throat

• Itchy or watery eyes

• Postnasal drip

• Nasal congestion

One important clue is itching. An itchy nose, eyes or throat is common with allergies but less typical of a cold.

Allergy symptoms also tend to persist or return when you're exposed to a trigger, while a typical viral illness eventually runs its course. For a deeper breakdown of these differences, read our guide on 7 signs you have allergies vs. a cold.

What's Triggering Late-Summer Allergies?

There isn't just one culprit. Several outdoor allergens can overlap during late summer in the South.

• Ragweed and other weeds: Weed pollen becomes an increasingly common trigger as summer progresses into fall. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, ragweed is one of the best-known offenders, and its lightweight pollen can travel hundreds of miles through the air—so you don't need to have ragweed growing in your own yard to experience symptoms.

• Grass pollen: Don't count grass out just because summer is winding down. Depending on where you live and local weather conditions, grasses may continue contributing to allergy symptoms.

• Mold: Warm temperatures, high humidity and frequent rain create favorable conditions for mold. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), outdoor mold spores can be found year-round in warm, humid regions and may be especially troublesome during wet weather.

That overlap can make August a particularly frustrating time for people with multiple environmental allergies.

What Can You Do About Late-Summer and Fall Allergies?

Reducing your exposure to allergens may help lessen symptoms. Consider:

• Checking local pollen and mold counts via the National Allergy Bureau and limiting extended outdoor activity when levels are particularly high

• Keeping windows closed when outdoor allergen levels are elevated

• Showering and changing clothes after spending significant time outdoors

• Avoiding bringing pollen-covered shoes and clothing into bedrooms

• Addressing excess moisture or humidity inside your home that can encourage mold growth

• Talking with a healthcare provider about appropriate allergy medications and treatment options

Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include antihistamines, nasal sprays or other therapies.

When Is It Time to See a Specialist?

If you're relying on over-the-counter medications but still struggling with congestion, sneezing, sinus pressure or other symptoms, it may be time to find out what's actually triggering your allergies.

Professional allergy testing can help identify specific triggers and allow your care team to develop a more personalized treatment plan. For some patients whose symptoms aren't adequately controlled with medication and environmental changes, sublingual allergy immunotherapy (drops or shots) may also be an option.

In the South, allergy season doesn't always fit neatly into one season, but that doesn't mean you have to live with the symptoms.

Ready to breathe easier? Schedule an appointment with our ENT and allergy team today.