Why Are My Allergies & Asthma Worse in the Fall?
Many people look forward to the leaves changing color and the air turning crisp as fall approaches, but this time of the season might not be as enjoyable if you suffer from allergies and asthma.
For many of us, fall brings a noticeable increase in allergy and asthma symptoms, leaving us wondering why our conditions seem to worsen this time of year.
Watch the video: Why Are My Allergies & Asthma Worse in the Fall?
The Numbers Behind Fall Allergies and Asthma
Allergy and asthma flare-ups are common in the fall, so you’re not alone if you experience them.
The fall season is particularly challenging when we consider that 25.7% of adults over 18 experience seasonal allergies, and more than 7% have eczema, while nearly 19% of children have seasonal allergies and more than 10% have eczema.
Furthermore, asthma exacerbations peak in the fall from September through November. This increase is partly due to viral respiratory infections becoming more prevalent.
Why Are Fall Allergies and Asthma Worse?
Several factors contribute to the worsening of allergies and asthma in the fall:
Ragweed Pollen: Ragweed is one of the most common fall allergens. It starts releasing pollen in late summer and can continue well into the fall.
If you’re allergic to ragweed, you might experience sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Even if you don’t live near ragweed, its pollen can travel hundreds of miles, making it hard to escape.
Mold: Mold spores are another common allergen in the fall. As leaves fall and decompose, mold grows, and the spores can become airborne. Breathing in mold spores can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms.
Dust Mites: You may spend more time indoors when the weather cools. Unfortunately, indoor allergens like dust mites thrive in heated homes and can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, making maintaining a clean living environment essential.
Temperature Changes: Fall weather is unpredictable, with warm days and cool nights. These temperature fluctuations can irritate your airways, leading to severe asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Viral Infections: The start of the school year and cooler temperatures can lead to an increase in viral infections, which are a common trigger for asthma exacerbations. Even a mild cold can lead to severe asthma symptoms.
Managing Fall Allergies and Asthma
If you find that your allergies and asthma are worse in the fall, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
Work with Your Healthcare Team: Having a plan in place for managing your allergies and asthma is essential. Schedule regular check-ups with your primary care doctor and discuss your symptoms so they can adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Limit Allergen Exposure: Reduce your exposure to common fall allergens by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers, and washing your hands after spending time outdoors.
Consider wearing a mask and other protective gear when raking leaves or engaging in outdoor activities that might stir up allergens.
Keep Your Home Clean: Frequently clean your home to help remove indoor allergens like dust mites and mold. Wash bedding frequently, use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, and vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Monitor the Weather: Be mindful of pollen counts and air quality reports. On days when allergen levels are high, try to limit your time outdoors and keep windows closed.
Biologic Therapy, Your Ally in Allergy and Asthma Management
If you struggle to manage your asthma and allergies with traditional treatments, it may be time to discuss biologic therapy with your doctor.
Biologics are advanced medications that target specific components of your immune system to prevent and control severe asthma and allergy symptoms. These therapies are usually administered in a healthcare setting and may provide relief when other treatments have failed.
Studies show that biologic therapy significantly decreases asthma-related hospital admissions and asthma-related readmission rates, making them an excellent complement to your existing disease management strategy.
Your healthcare provider can help determine if biologic therapy is right for you. However, it’s essential to have an open conversation about your symptoms, triggers, and treatment options to find the best approach for managing your allergies and asthma.
Take Control of Your Fall Allergies and Asthma
Fall doesn’t have to be a season of suffering. By understanding why your symptoms worsen and taking practical steps, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn while controlling your allergies and asthma.
If you’re finding it challenging to manage your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for guidance and explore if biologic therapy might be a suitable option for you.
