Allergy Relief During Extended Ragweed Season

Ragweed season begins in mid-August and is now reaching its high point to the chagrin of over 50 million ragweed allergy sufferers in the U.S.  It’s a hard allergy to manage, especially because the tiny pollen grains are able to travel 400 miles!  Ragweed season is at its peak, bringing bad news for the more than 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies to the plant.  And the season seems to be getting longer each year.

A recent issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology links this increase in length of the ragweed season to global warming.  The effects of global climate change include warmer weather, and therefore, a longer growing season.   Ragweed plants are growing faster, lasting longer, and producing more pollen.

What can we do?

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends keeping your home and car windows closed, minimizing outdoor activity, and showering after spending time outside.  Allergy relief can also be achieved using air purifiers like HEPA filters and air cleaners, including central vacuums.