Ragweed allergy is a major contributor of
aggravated asthma symptoms. Ragweed allergy is
seasonal, and is killed off some time in the
late fall. Commonly found in some rural areas of
eastern and Midwestern states; ragweed thrives
in areas where the soil is completely bare and
free from other vegetation. These pieces of land
include vacant lots, roadways, or along river
banks. Surviving for only one season, each plant
produces one billion grains of pollen. Since the
pollen is very light; it can be carried by air
currents for many miles. Ragweed seeds also
thrive for years in the soil and only grow when
conditions are just right.
Ragweed allergy stimulates and causes the immune
system to overreact. Usually, from this; allergy
and asthma symptoms are most likely to occur.
This is especially true for those who are
extremely sensitive who come into contact with
the pollen from ragweed. Many asthma symptoms
include but are not limited to:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Coughing
Breathing difficulties
- Tightness of chest
- Wheezing
Allergy tests can be taken to conclude if a
person possesses a ragweed allergy. One great
way to self diagnose yourself is if you happen
to notice allergy increases, or asthma symptoms
right around mid-August.
Unfortunately, there is not a lot a person can
do to cure ragweed allergy. Keep in mind that
there are minor actions one can take to minimize
symptoms. Try to avoid contact with pollen from
ragweed as much as possible. This is no easy
task, as there is a high content of ragweed
pollen in the months of August, September, and
October.
Staying informed of the high pollen count in
your area and staying inside if it happens to be
high is a great way to avoid the clutches of a
ragweed allergy. In house and car; be sure to
keep windows closed and the air on. For your
house, try to obtain a high efficiency
particulate air filter. This filter will help to
remove pollen from the air.
Taking prescribed medication faithfully is
another way of fighting ragweed allergy. Just
because you may not experience symptoms
frequently does not mean you have beaten your
allergy. Antihistamines such as Claritin,
Allergra, and Zyrtec are very helpful in
fighting ragweed allergy. Let us not forget our
anti-flammatory eye drops and nasal sprays.
Oral allergy syndrome is a high risk factor for
those who suffer from a ragweed allergy. Most
probably know this as pollen-food allergy. Cross
sensitivity to ragweed pollen and a few foods
such as bananas and melon are most likely to
develop.