According to recent studies, as many as 24 million Americans experience seasonal allergies. While many associate allergies with springtime, fall allergies are also very common.

The best way to handle fall allergies is to prepare before they occur. In this article, we will outline the causes of fall allergies and helpful preparation strategies.

What Causes Fall Allergies

People generally understand the way that pollen causes spring allergies. The same principles are at work with fall allergies. Understanding the causes of allergies can teach you how to help your allergies.

Ragweed: this plant is the common cause of hay fever. Ragweed pollen reaches its peak in mid-September and is responsible for most runny noses and watery eyes in the fall.

Dust: as the weather gets colder, you are more likely to close up your doors and windows. This allows natural dust to accumulate in your home, causing more allergic reactions.

Mold: the added moisture fall air brings can contribute to mold growth. To keep your family healthy, it is important to prevent mold growth from occurring.

Clear Your House of Allergens

With three main allergens identified, make sure your house does not contain any of them. There are a few simple ways to do this.

First, keep your doors and windows closed. While an open window lets refreshing, cool air inside, it also carries ragweed pollen. Shutting your doors and windows will help keep ragweed outside.

Second, deal with any dust and mold. Dusting your house more often will limit your dust exposure. If you think you have mold, contact an experienced professional for help with mold treatment and removal.

Avoid Outdoor Allergens

You cannot always be inside, but you can make small, helpful decisions. For more severe seasonal allergies, avoid prolonged periods of time outdoors. You can do this by choosing more indoor activities rather than outdoor activities.

Identify Helpful Medications

For most seasonal allergies, an over the counter medication provides fast relief from most symptoms. If other avoidance measures do not alleviate your symptoms, look for a medication that is right for you.

When selecting an allergy medication, you can look to a local pharmacist for guidance, or you can speak with a board-certified healthcare provider at a local urgent care clinic.

Know Where To Get Care

In some cases, further action will be needed. That’s where a visit to Live Urgent Care can help.

At Live Urgent Care, our board-certified providers are standing by. Our urgent care centers are ready 7 days a week to help create an allergy plan. We also offer telehealth visits for added convenience. Find the location nearest you and book ahead whenever allergies strike.