Ragweed allergy season is about to begin

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – It's starting to feel a little more like fall. The kids are going back to school and football season is right around the corner. We even have those cool and crisp nights, but with fall comes another allergy season.

In spring, grass and tree pollen are predominant. However, wild ragweed is also widespread at this time of year.

“We are currently in the midst of pollen season for weeds, which includes ragweed. We are nearing the peak and it will continue until we get a killing freeze sometime in the fall,” said Dr. William Greisner of Bluegrass Allergy Care.

Greisner said dry and windy days lead to a sharp increase in pollen concentrations.

“I expect we'll see very high weed pollen levels through the weekend, both because of the dry conditions and the wind we're currently experiencing,” Greisner said.

Beautiful and pleasant days like Wednesday may tempt you to open the windows, but it is these things that can make allergy sufferers' symptoms worse.

“Don't leave your windows open at night. It may be fun, but it only brings in pollen from outside. Don't drive with the windows rolled down either,” advises Greisner.

It is also important to recognize when simple allergy medications are not enough.

“If you continue to have problems with your allergies despite taking over-the-counter medications, you should see a specialist who can offer you advanced therapy and possibly allergy shots. So see an allergist.”

While rain temporarily washes away pollen, it also causes pollen-producing plants to become more active, which in turn worsens allergies when it gets dry.

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