Why Are My Allergies Worse In The Fall?

What are fall allergies and where do they primarily occur? 

Fall allergies are seasonal reactions triggered by airborne allergens such as ragweed pollen, mold spores, and dust mites that become prevalent during the autumn months. Ragweed, one of the most common fall allergens, is especially problematic in the Midwest and Eastern United States, where it thrives and releases pollen that can travel hundreds of miles.

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Mold, which grows on decaying leaves and in damp environments, is widespread across the country but is particularly prevalent in areas with heavy rainfall during the fall. Dust mites, which can become dispersed in the home as indoor heating systems are turned on, can affect people nationwide. While fall allergies can impact individuals across the U.S., they tend to be more severe in regions with higher concentrations of these allergens.

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Why are my allergies worse in the fall?

If you're wondering, "Why do I get allergies in the fall?" the answer is simple: Allergies can be particularly severe in autumn due to the high concentration of allergens in the air and specific environmental conditions that exacerbate symptoms. Ragweed, one of the most potent fall allergens, releases vast amounts of pollen that can travel hundreds of miles, affecting people even in areas where ragweed doesn't grow. 

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Additionally, mold thrives in damp, decaying leaves and other organic matter, releasing spores that can trigger respiratory issues. As the weather cools and we spend more time indoors, dust mites become more prevalent, further contributing to allergy flare-ups. These combined factors make fall a challenging season for those prone to allergies, often leading to more intense and prolonged symptoms.

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How are fall allergies diagnosed?

Common fall allergies are typically diagnosed through a combination of your medical history, a discussion of symptoms, and specific allergy tests. At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, we offer comprehensive testing to accurately identify the allergens triggering your symptoms. Our testing process may include skin prick tests, where small amounts of common fall allergens like ragweed, mold, and dust mites are introduced to your skin to observe any reactions. We may also utilize blood tests to measure your immune system’s response to these allergens. Once we identify your specific triggers, we can tailor a treatment plan that targets your fall allergies, providing you with long-term relief and helping you enjoy the season without discomfort.

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Most common fall allergy symptoms

Fall can be a challenging season for those with allergies, as the cooler weather often brings an uptick in symptoms. The main culprits during this time, ragweed, mold, and dust mites, can trigger reactions similar to cold or flu-like symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Common fall allergy symptoms may include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Coughing
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Sinus pressure or headaches

These symptoms can be particularly frustrating as they mirror those of seasonal colds, leading many to mistakenly attribute their discomfort to an illness rather than allergies. Understanding the specific triggers and managing exposure can help alleviate the severity of fall allergy symptoms.

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Our most common question about fall allergies is: What is the difference between a cold and allergies?

This graph helps determine the similarities and differences between both. If you're still unsure of which you might be experiencing, take our quiz!

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What are the most common fall allergy triggers?

Weeds and molds are some of the most notorious triggers for fall allergies, making this season particularly challenging for allergy sufferers. You might assume you're safe from ragweed if it doesn't grow in your area, but that’s far from true. Ragweed pollen is lightweight and can travel hundreds of miles on a windy day, meaning it can reach you even if you’re far from its source. Just one ragweed plant can produce up to a billion pollen grains, and about 75% of people who are allergic to springtime grasses and trees are also sensitive to ragweed.

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Weeds

Rainy fall weather often causes weeds and grasses to grow unchecked, leading to an abundance of allergens in the air. Common fall allergy-inducing weeds include:

• Ragweed
• Goldenrod
• Sagebrush
• Mugwort
• English plantain
• Lambsquarter
• Pigweed
• Russian thistle
• Yellow dock
• Sorrel
• Firebush
• Cocklebur
• Marsh elder

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Mold

Mold is another significant fall allergy trigger. As the weather cools and rain becomes more frequent, fallen leaves and other decaying organic matter provide the perfect environment for mold growth. Breathing in mold spores can worsen asthma and cause symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and other upper respiratory issues. If you’re planning to spend more time outdoors enjoying the fall weather, consider wearing a mask to minimize exposure to mold.

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Pets

Spending more time indoors due to rainy weather can mean an increase in your pet allergens. Also, your furry friends can unknowingly bring outdoor allergens into your home. Mold, ragweed, and other allergens can cling to their fur and paws. To reduce the risk of indoor allergy flare-ups, be sure to wipe down your pets before they come inside, especially before they jump onto furniture or beds.

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Dust Mites

As the days get cooler, you might turn on your heating system for the first time in months. Unfortunately, this can stir up dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments. When your heating kicks in, it can blow dust mites throughout your home, leading to sneezing, wheezing, and runny noses. To minimize this, make sure to change your air filters before turning on your heat for the season.

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When does fall allergy season start and end?

Fall allergy season typically kicks off in late August and lasts through November, with pollen levels usually peaking in early to mid-September. Ragweed is the primary culprit during this time, producing vast amounts of pollen that can travel far and wide. In warmer climates, such as Florida, grass can continue to pollinate well into the fall, extending allergy symptoms for many sufferers. Download our free allergy calendar for your area to help understand the timeline of fall allergies so you can better prepare and manage your symptoms.

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What’s the difference between fall and spring allergies? 

Fall and spring allergies differ primarily in the allergens that trigger symptoms and the environmental conditions that affect their prevalence. In the spring, allergies are often driven by tree pollen, such as from oak and elm trees, as well as early-blooming grasses. The warmer temperatures and increased plant growth during spring lead to a surge in pollen counts, which can cause symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. 

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In contrast, fall allergies are primarily caused by ragweed pollen, as well as mold spores from decaying leaves, and dust mites that become more problematic as indoor heating systems are used. The cooler, damp conditions of fall contribute to mold growth and can stir up dust mites, making fall allergies distinct from the spring variety.

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Prevention tips for fall allergies

With the fall season coming up, here are some things you can do to prepare and start preventing your allergies before they get worse. 

• Try to stay indoors when pollen counts are high: Pollen in the fall is typically at its peak during the late morning or midday. Be sure to stay updated with local pollen counts in your area. We like pollen.com!
• Change your air filters: Mold and dust mites can get trapped in the vents over the summer and will fill your house with them if you don't change them.
• Use a HEPA filter: It’s designed to remove pollen, mold, and other allergens from the air.
• Use a dehumidifier: This will help control mold growth and lower the humidity in your home. Keeping a humidity level of 30 to 50% indoors discourages mold growth.
• Consider wearing glasses, a mask, or a bandana: This will help to protect your eyes and avoid inhaling allergens while pulling weeds or raking leaves. 
• Wear long sleeves and pants: This will reduce your skin’s exposure to allergies when outside, especially if you’re hiking in the woods.
• Change your clothes after coming inside: Don’t bring in all the allergens that have collected onto your clothes inside!
• Try a neti pot: If your nose is blocked and stuffy, using a neti pot with a saline solution can help clear out any mucous. 

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Best treatments for fall allergies

At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, we offer effective, long-term treatments designed to provide lasting relief, so you won’t have to suffer through fall allergies year after year!

Allergy Shots

Allergy shots are an excellent option for those seeking a structured and consistent treatment plan. These injections work by gradually training your immune system not to overreact to specific allergens. Over time, the amount of allergen in the injection increases, helping your body build tolerance. Administered weekly or bi-weekly in our office, allergy shots offer a reliable way to manage and eventually reduce allergy symptoms.

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Allergy Drops

For those with a busy lifestyle, allergy drops are a convenient and portable alternative. Taken sublingually (under the tongue), just three drops a day can provide long-term relief. Allergy drops are especially suitable for children and work similarly to allergy shots by increasing the concentration of the allergen over time, helping your immune system become less reactive.

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ExACT Immunoplasty 

Our ExACT treatment is a cutting-edge solution for allergy sufferers, offering the benefits of three years’ worth of allergy shots in a much shorter time frame. Clinically proven to be highly effective, with an 87% long-term success rate, ExACT Immunoplasty is ideal for those looking for a fast, efficient treatment option.

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By choosing the right treatment, you can enjoy the fall season without the burden of allergies.

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‍Trust Aspire Allergy & Sinus for Fall Allergy Relief

Allergies shouldn't hold you back from enjoying the beauty of the fall season. With personalized allergy treatments, you can breathe easy and savor the crisp autumn air without the constant sniffling and sneezing. Don’t let allergies keep you indoors — schedule your appointment online today and experience the full splendor of autumn with relief that lasts.