Why Are My Allergies Worse in Late Summer? Understanding Ragweed Allergy

Spring gets most of the attention when it comes to seasonal allergies, but many people actually feel worse near the end of summer.

If your sneezing, stuffy nose or itchy eyes suddenly return in August or continue into the fall, ragweed pollen may be one of the reasons.

What Is Ragweed?

Ragweed is a common plant that releases pollen into the air.

Unlike the colourful flowers you may notice in gardens, ragweed is fairly easy to overlook. It often grows along roadsides, vacant lots, fields and other disturbed areas.

The pollen is very light and can travel through the air, so you do not need to have ragweed growing directly beside your home to be exposed to it.

When Is Ragweed Season?

Ragweed typically begins releasing pollen in late summer and can continue into the fall.

The exact timing changes from year to year depending on weather conditions, but symptoms commonly become more noticeable in August and can continue until the first frost.

That is why someone who feels fine for much of the summer may suddenly notice allergy symptoms returning toward the end of August.

What Does Ragweed Allergy Feel Like?

Ragweed allergy can cause typical seasonal allergy symptoms, including:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Itchy nose or throat
• Red, itchy or watery eyes
• Post-nasal drip
• Coughing
• Trouble sleeping because of congestion

People with asthma may also notice more coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath when their allergies are not well controlled.

Why Are Some Days Worse Than Others?

Pollen levels can change considerably from one day to another.

Dry and windy weather can help pollen move through the air. Rain may temporarily reduce airborne pollen by washing some of it out of the air.

This is why you might feel perfectly comfortable one day and noticeably worse the next, even though you have not changed anything in your routine.

How Can You Reduce Your Exposure?

You cannot completely avoid outdoor pollen, but a few simple habits may help reduce how much you bring into your home.

Keep Windows Closed When Pollen Is High

It can be tempting to open the windows on a nice day, but this can allow pollen into your home.

Air conditioning can help keep the house comfortable without bringing as much outdoor air inside.

Change Your Clothes After Spending Time Outside

Pollen can collect on clothing and hair.

Changing your clothes and showering after spending a lot of time outdoors may help, especially before going to bed.

Do Not Dry Laundry Outside During Allergy Season

Sheets, towels and clothing hanging outdoors can collect pollen and bring it back inside.

Pay Attention to Pollen Levels

Checking local pollen conditions can help you plan outdoor activities on days when pollen levels are lower.

You do not need to stay inside all season. The goal is simply to reduce exposure when symptoms are particularly bothersome.

What About Allergy Medication?

Several types of medication can help with seasonal allergy symptoms.

Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include antihistamines, allergy eye drops or nasal sprays.

Some allergy treatments work better when used regularly during your allergy season rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.

Speak with your doctor, pharmacist or allergist about which treatment is appropriate for you and how to use it correctly.

How Do You Know If Ragweed Is Actually the Problem?

Timing can provide a clue, but symptoms alone cannot tell you exactly what you are allergic to.

Ragweed, grass, mould and other environmental allergens can cause very similar symptoms.

Allergy testing can help identify your specific triggers.

Knowing the trigger can make it easier to understand when symptoms are likely to occur and which avoidance or treatment strategies may be most useful.

When Should You See an Allergist?

Consider speaking with an allergist if:

• Your allergies return around the same time every year
• Symptoms interfere with sleep, work or school
• Over-the-counter treatments are not helping enough
• You have asthma that gets worse during allergy season
• You are not sure what is causing your symptoms
• Your allergy season seems to be getting harder to manage

An allergist can review your symptoms, perform testing when appropriate and help develop a treatment plan based on your actual triggers.

The Bottom Line

If your allergies suddenly become worse near the end of summer, ragweed may be responsible.

Ragweed pollen commonly becomes more noticeable in late summer and can remain a problem into the fall. Reducing pollen exposure and using the right treatment can make the season much more manageable.

If you find yourself dealing with the same symptoms every August or fall, Dandelion Allergy Centre can help identify what you are allergic to and find a treatment plan that works for you.

This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.