Ragweed - It's # 1

Ragweed is the number one cause of hay fever. It begins to flower in August and a single plant is able to produce up to one million pollen granules a day.

Even if you don't live near it, the wind can carry its pollen up to fifty or even a hundred miles away. And only a hard freeze can kill it.

Pollen counts are highest between 5 am and 10 am, so if you're allergic to ragweed it's best to stay indoors during that time, preferably in a place with an air conditioner.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology recommends the following tips for allergy sufferers to help reduce exposure to ragweed:

    * Keep windows closed at all times during ragweed season to prevent pollen from drifting into your home. Use air conditioning, which cleans, cools and dries the air

    * Keep your car windows closed when traveling

    * Take a shower after spending time outside – pollen can collect on your hair and skin

    * Don't hang sheets or clothing outside to dry. Pollens can collect on them.

    * Minimize exposure to other known allergens during ragweed season, since symptoms are the result of a cumulative effect of multiple allergens and non-allergic triggers.

    *Get up-to-date pollen information for your area from the National Allergy Bureau at http://www.aaaai.org/nab/index.cfm?p=pollen

Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for hay fever, so hay fever victims should also see an allergist to determine the exact cause of their discomfort, because tree pollen, grass, animal dander and molds can also cause the same symptoms, including runny nose, itchy ears, watery eyes and congestion.

Click here for more

Back to Allergy Contents

Back to Home Page