Fall Allergies Spike as Ragweed Blooms Across Midwest

As autumn sets in across the Midwest, residents are confronting a familiar seasonal challenge: increased allergy symptoms. The Missouri Department of Conservation warns that the blooming of ragweed marks the start of heightened allergies for many individuals. This year, the transition to fall began earlier this week, bringing with it cooler temperatures and, for some, a resurgence of discomfort.

While spring is typically synonymous with high pollen counts from flowers and grasses, late summer and early fall trigger symptoms for those sensitive to specific allergens. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and congested noses become common as ragweed, mold, and other airborne irritants dominate this time of year. The term “hay fever,” which emerged in the early 1800s during harvest season, is still widely used today to describe allergic rhinitis linked to pollen and mold.

Missouri residents are particularly affected by a unique set of fall allergens, which include ragweed, mold spores, and tree and grass pollen. While tree and grass pollen are typically more prevalent during spring and early summer months, ragweed and mold spores take center stage as summer wanes and autumn approaches.

Understanding the Impact of Weather on Allergies

Weather patterns play a significant role in shaping the severity of fall allergies. Dry, windy conditions can exacerbate symptoms by facilitating the airborne travel of loose pollen and mold spores. Ragweed, which flourishes in late summer and autumn, is especially problematic. Its lightweight pollen can disperse over vast distances, impacting a broader population.

Warm temperatures contribute to the extended growth of ragweed, which continues to produce pollen until the first frost occurs. Although ragweed pollen levels typically decline with cooler temperatures, a hard freeze is necessary to completely eliminate this airborne allergen. This phenomenon holds true for other late-season pollen producers as well.

Rainfall also influences pollen levels in various ways. While rain may encourage the production of pollen, it can momentarily suppress airborne pollen by weighing it down, providing short-term relief for allergy sufferers. Additionally, cleansing autumn rain helps clear the air of other allergens, such as dust, which tends to accumulate during harvest time.

Managing Fall Allergies Effectively

For those grappling with fall allergies, proactive measures can significantly alleviate symptoms. Health experts recommend staying indoors on dry, windy days, closing windows, and using air filters to reduce exposure to allergens as the season progresses.

By taking these precautions, affected individuals can better manage their symptoms, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of fall without the discomfort that often accompanies it. As allergy season unfolds, awareness and preventive strategies remain crucial for maintaining well-being during this time of year.