Autumn arrives with cool air, vibrant leaves, and everything flavored with pumpkin spice, but for a lot of people, it also signals the comeback of seasonal allergies. Ragweed, mold, dust mites, and the leaves that fall can cause sneezing, stuffy noses, itchy eyes, and tiredness. If you’re having a tough time with fall allergies, you’re not by yourself. The bright side is that there are many ways to handle symptoms at home. But if the allergies get too much to handle, our Community Clinic is ready to assist!

Common Fall Allergy Triggers

Before we get into solutions, it’s crucial to understand what you’re dealing with. The main causes of fall allergies are: 

• Ragweed Pollen: This is a big trigger because ragweed lets out pollen from August to November. 
• Mold: Wet fallen leaves and cooler temperatures make a great place for mold to grow. 
• Dust Mites: When people stay indoors more with the heat on, dust mites can make allergies worse.
•  Pet Dander: With pets staying inside more, you might be exposed to more allergens.

At-Home Tips to Manage Fall Allergies

Keep Pollen and Mold Out

• Close Windows: Make sure to keep them closed so pollen doesn’t come in.
• Use Air Purifiers: HEPA filters can catch allergens and make the air inside better.
• Change HVAC Filters: Swap them out every 1-3 months to cut down on allergens in the air.

Reduce Indoor Allergens

• Wash Bedding Weekly: Use hot water to kill dust mites on your sheets.
• Vacuum Regularly: Get a vacuum with a HEPA filter to pick up allergens.
• Control Humidity: Keep the humidity inside below 50% to stop mold from growing.

Try Natural Remedies

• Saline Nasal Rinses: A neti pot or saline spray can help wash out pollen and clear your nose.
• Local Honey: Some people think eating local honey can help you get used to pollen (but there’s not much science to back it up).
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps thin out mucus and makes your nose feel better.

Over the Counter (OTC) Relief

• Antihistamines (e.g., Claritin, Zyrtec): These block histamine to help with sneezing and itching.
• Nasal Steroid Sprays (e.g., Flonase): These help reduce swelling in your nose.
• Decongestants (e.g., Sudafed): They give quick relief for stuffiness (but don’t use them too much).

Our Community Clinic offers tailored care. Don’t let allergies spoil your autumn, stop by for a check-up if your symptoms continue, and we welcome all walk-ins!

Fall allergies can be hard to deal with, but if you use the right tips, you can lessen their effects. Keeping your house free of allergens and taking over-the-counter medicines can help a lot. But if your allergies are affecting your everyday life, make sure to contact our Community Clinic for professional help.

Stay healthy and enjoy the season!