Fall Allergies and Hayfever

Fall Seasonal Allergies

It’s that time of year again when the side of the road begins to turn yellow with ragweed blooms. While ragweed is an ecologically important plant for bugs and birds, it is one of the leading causes of fall allergies in humans. 

By late August, many of us are already feeling the full effects of fall allergies, or hay fever, including sneezing, a runny nose, congestion, post-nasal drip, itchy eyes, and itchy skin. While these are the most common symptoms, other, lesser-known symptoms of fatigue and body aches can also occur, especially when pollen levels are at their peak. 

Not everyone is affected by ragweed, but if you start noticing that you feel worse during the late summer and early fall, you, too, may be affected by ragweed!

Naturopathic Approach to Fall Allergies

Prevention is key! As soon as you notice symptoms, or before they have even had a chance to happen, you may need to incorporate anti-histamine support. Herbs like stinging nettle, thyme, turmeric, and ginger can help block histamine receptors and prevent mast cells from releasing histamine. You may also want to avoid high-histamine foods during ragweed season to help reduce your symptoms, including strawberries, citrus fruits, pineapples, fermented foods, and vinegars. 

In addition to avoiding higher-histamine foods during this time, we want to prioritize foods high in quercetin, which acts as a mast cell stabilizer to help reduce histamine release and lower symptom burden. Quercetin-rich foods include dark berries, dark cherries, apples, onions, and green tea. 

Lifestyle Factors to Consider 

During high-pollen days, you may want to consider keeping your doors and windows closed to reduce the chances of pollen invading your living space. You may also want to invest in an indoor HEPA air purifier to help filter out allergens in the air. If you have a central HVAC unit, you can consider changing the filter more frequently and purchasing a filter specifically for allergen reduction. When spending more time outdoors during high pollen season, you may want to change clothes immediately upon entering your home, and even consider showering immediately to wash off any pollen and reduce the chances of it getting tracked around your home. 

If you are experiencing seasonal allergies and seeking additional support, a visit with a naturopathic doctor will help provide you with the best course of action for your individual needs, and will take into consideration other factors, including sleep, stress levels, immune system, and any additional underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms. 

Call our office at (804) 977- 2634 to schedule an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors. 

References

Jafarinia M, Sadat Hosseini M, Kasiri N, et al. Quercetin with the potential effect on allergic diseases. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2020;16:36. Published 2020 May 14. doi:10.1186/s13223-020-00434-0