Ragweed

Have you been sneezing a lot lately? Have your eyes been itchy, red and teary?  Well, you may be suffering from allergies, particularly reacting to ragweed pollen.

Ragweed is the most allergenic plant of North America and the number one cause of fall hay fever.  Ragweed plants produce billions of pollen grains that are easily caught by the wind and spread throughout the region. Ragweed is often found along river banks, in abandoned lots and unattended fields.

Unfortunately for us, ragweed blooms from August to the first week in October, with September being the peak month of its season.  And, ragweed is most prevalent in the Midwest.  So this explains why you’ve been sniffling lately.

To reduce exposure to ragweed pollen, avoid the outdoors between 5 a.m.-10 a.m. and also dry, hot windy days.  After being outdoors, it is best to shower and change clothing, as pollen can adhere to clothing, skin, and hair.  Pets can also bring pollen into your home.  Try to keep windows closed in the home and car as much as possible to keep allergens out.

For more information about allergens affecting you, please call (513) 946-7747 to request a free copy of the Living with Allergies brochure or visit www.hcdoes.org to learn more about pollen and mold.