In Texas, pollen from this weed may be to blame for your allergies flaring up again

Dalia Faheid
·1 min read
9

In Dallas-Fort Worth, the pollination of ragweed happens from mid-August through November, with ragweed pollen levels usually peaking mid-September.

The metroplex has been ranked one of the top five worst places for ragweed allergens, per Health One Family Medicine. Worse, the increased heat levels in Texas have caused an extension in the ragweed season because dry, hot spells promote growth and pollen formation. With these conditions, pollen dispersal becomes very high.

Ragweed season can cause runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes and at worst asthma flares, according to Texas Farm Bureau Insurance. Ragweed is the number one cause of fall hay fever symptoms in the U.S. and the final phase of the annual pollination process.

Reducing ragweed pollen exposure

Follow these recommendations from ENT Docs to keep your ragweed allergy at bay:

  • Try to avoid the outdoors between 5 to 10 a.m. and on dry, hot and windy days. Pollen levels are lower in the late afternoon and after heavy rain.

  • Shower and change clothes after being outside, as pollen can adhere to clothing, skin and hair.

  • Keep your pets clean if they’re outside often.

  • Keep your car and house windows closed at all times.

  • Use a dryer instead of hanging clothes outside.

  • Frequently clean your house to get rid of accumulated pollen.

  • Antihistamines, decongestants and steroid nose sprays can be used to alleviate allergy symptoms.

  • Cleanse your nasal passages with warm water to clear out pollen irritants.