Autumn Allergies or Something Else? What to Know for Fall

Do you have autumn allergies - or are your symptoms something else? With the fall weather comes the flu, colds, and other viral infections. The similarities between symptoms can confuse patients who may, or may not, have allergies. Before you assume your sniffles and sore throat are signs of sickness,   take a look at what you need to know about fall allergies.

In-Between Weather Can Contribute to Allergies

Gone are the sunny summer days. But does this mean your summer-time allergies are also gone? Even though the temperature may dip in the fall, unseasonably warm weather is often a typical part of this time of the year. If your area's weather feels more like summer than fall, it's possible ragweed and other outdoor allergens are still in the air.

The sometimes-warm, sometimes-cool fall weather can help some allergens survive or even thrive. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, ragweed, tree, and grass pollen counts may increase when the days are warm and the nights are cool. This means your pollen allergies may worsen in the early autumn or during unseasonably hot late-fall days.

Symptoms such as runny/stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, rash, or itchy eyes are common with allergies. Even though you may think your summer-time allergies are done for year, these symptoms could point to a flare up. If you're not sure whether the in-between warm/cold weather is at fault for a late-season allergy return or you're sick, contact your medical provider for an expert diagnosis.

Fall Leaves Can Increase Allergies

While fall leaves on their own may not set off your allergies, the simple act of raking them can. As you clear your yard, you can rake up more than just leaves. Along with the leaves, you can disturb grass clippings, plants, and other natural debris - propelling these potential allergens toward you.

If you have questionable symptoms and you recently raked the leaves, it's possible your allergies are in full-swing. Like with unseasonably warm fall weather, you also need a doctor's diagnosis to confirm the cause.

Time Indoors Can Cause Allergies

Now that you're indoors more, the air inside your home, office, school, or any other interior space may have a greater effect on your allergies. Whether your HVAC system re-circulates pet fur (or dander), the windows and entry doors allow outdoor pollutants in, or you have another trigger inside your home, indoor air quality can impact how you feel.

Again, any potential allergy symptom requires a doctor's diagnosis. With increased time spent indoors also comes an increased risk for colds, the flu, and other viral illnesses. If you're not sure why you have nasal or respiratory symptoms, talk to your allergist or medical provider.

Autumn Allergies Have Expected Symptoms

Whether the fall weather suddenly warmed, you rake leaves often, or the indoor air isn't always clear, you're somewhat sure you have autumn allergies. You know the symptoms (runny/stuffy nose, itchy eyes, cough, sneezing, or rash), and you know to call the doctor for a diagnosis.

While you wait for a doctor's appointment, should you steer clear of other people - just in case you are sick? Along with the expected autumn allergy symptoms, you also need to know what issues signal an illness. Fever, chills, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of taste or smell aren't typical allergy symptoms.

If you experience these symptoms alone or with nasal or respiratory issues, allergies are likely not the culprit. Before you go to work, school, shopping, or anywhere else, call your medical provider for a consultation, examination, and diagnosis.

Are you ready to find a treatment for fall weather allergies? Contact Wilmington Ear Nose & Throat MD for more information.