Just at the time of year that allergy sufferers in most areas are getting some relief, San Antonians and Houstonites are seeing fall allergy symptoms pop up. If you find that you are always kind of sneezy and itchy at this time of year, fall allergy can be to blame.
What are some fall allergy symptoms?
Many people mistake fall allergy symptoms for the symptoms of a fall or early winter cold. Dr. Shah states that “while there is a large overlap in symptoms, allergies have a few that distinguish them.” The symptoms you are most likely to suffer from if you are experiencing fall allergies:
- a runny nose with thin, clear discharge
- itchy nose and eyes
- an itchy, irritated throat
- watery eyes
If you have a fever or if you have thick green or brown mucus, you may be suffering from a sinus infection instead. Additionally, you can often tell if you are suffering from allergies because you’ll experience symptoms only after exposure to your triggers or only during a specific time of year.
What is causing your fall nasal allergies?
In most parts of the country, ragweed is the number one allergen. This blooms in the spring and releases pollen that causes irritation. “Hay fever” is, in fact, a misnomer; most people who have it are reacting to other plants that grow alongside grasses and hay.
In Texas, the most common allergen is mountain cedar. This tree is unlike others and blooms in late fall and winter. Heavy rains in September can often be a predictor of high pollen counts later on. With the wet season we’ve had, it is likely to be a high pollen year.
Mountain cedar is most common in the Hill Country near San Antonio. When the trees turn red with pollen, it’s a sign that the city will soon be full of this common allergen. Houstonians are not safe, either; winds can blow pollen down into Houston and cause residents there to suffer allergy symptoms.
Many people also find that this time of year brings other irritants that can cause allergy symptoms. Fall means bonfires for many people, and the resulting smoke can irritate your eyes and nose.
Wet weather can also make it easy for mold to grow and release spores. A number of allergy sufferers experience mold allergies, making rainy weather a common precursor to severe allergy symptoms.
How to find relief
Many allergy sufferers find that their symptoms are better when they avoid their allergy triggers. If pollen is one of yours, avoiding outdoor activities may be a short-term answer. Allergy medications that range from over the counter antihistamines to more sophisticated nasal steroids can help. Having treatments that include balloon sinuplasty can open up airways and provide lasting relief that reduces your reliance on allergy medication.
Also, check out the 5 tips for San Antonio allergy sufferers from CultureMap San Antonio.
Come in for a consultation at American Sinus for balloon sinuplasty. This can help alleviate your worst allergy symptoms and let you get back to your normal life. You can give us a call at 210-BALLOON or request an appointment online.