As summer fades into fall, many people begin experiencing familiar symptoms of seasonal allergies. Ragweed pollen is one of the most common culprits of fall allergies, triggering symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to severe reactions. But how do you know if you have a ragweed pollen allergy, and what can you do about it? In this blog, we’ll explore the signs of a ragweed allergy and discuss ways to help you manage your symptoms.
For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek. Our medical team is available seven days a week to provide personalized allergy treatment plans seven days a week. Just walk-in, book telemedicine, or pre-register below!
Understanding Ragweed Pollen Allergies
Ragweed is a type of plant that releases pollen into the air from the late summer months to the fall. It’s found in nearly every part of the U.S., and even if it’s not growing near you, the pollen can travel hundreds of miles. Ragweed pollen counts are highest in early September but can last through October. If you’re allergic to ragweed pollen, your immune system mistakenly identifies the pollen as a harmful substance. This triggers an allergic reaction in some individuals, resulting in the following symptoms:
- Sneezing: One of the most common symptoms, sneezing occurs as your body tries to expel the pollen from your nasal passages.
- Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion is a frequent complaint during ragweed season, often accompanied by a watery or itchy nose.
- Itchy Eyes: If your eyes become red, watery, or itchy during the fall months, this could be a sign of a ragweed allergy.
- Coughing & Throat Irritation: Pollen can cause postnasal drip, leading to coughing and/or a sore throat.
- Fatigue: Dealing with allergy symptoms over an extended period can leave you feeling exhausted and run down.
How To Confirm a Ragweed Allergy
If you’re experiencing these symptoms primarily in the fall, you may suspect ragweed is the cause. However, to confirm a ragweed pollen allergy, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can examine your symptoms and perform allergy testing to identify the specific allergens triggering your symptoms. Many urgent care centers offer on-site diagnostic testing to identify if ragweed pollen is to blame. Once diagnosed, your providers will develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your symptoms effectively. This may include prescription or over-the-counter medications, nasal sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants.
Tips For Managing Ragweed Allergies
If you’re diagnosed with a ragweed pollen allergy, several steps can help alleviate symptoms and make the season more bearable. In order to manage your symptoms, follow these steps:
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Stay indoors on high-pollen count days, especially during peak times in the morning.
- Use Air Conditioning: Keep your windows and doors closed and consider using air conditioning to filter out pollen.
- Shower After Being Outside: Washing off pollen from your hair and skin can prevent it from spreading in your home.
- Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can help reduce symptoms. If your symptoms are persistent, worsening, or severe, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications or allergy shots.
Get Walk-In Seasonal Allergy Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek
Ragweed pollen allergies can be disruptive, but identifying the cause of your symptoms is the first step in managing them. If you think you may have a ragweed allergy, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek for testing and treatment options. With proper management, our team can help you enjoy the fall season without suffering from the worst of your allergy symptoms. With walk-in access and same-day appointments available, our urgent care center makes it easier than ever for you to get the care you need when you need it most. Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about seasonal allergy treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our team directly at (303) 692-8000.
