Allergies triggered by change of season

AORN Journal,  Oct, 2002  

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Ragweed season has begun, according to an Aug 9, 2002, news release from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI). Ragweed is a plant that releases the pollen most responsible for allergy symptoms. Approximately 35.9 million Americans suffer from seasonal rhinitis, which is triggered by ragweed:

With days becoming shorter and nights becoming longer, ragweed begins to pollinate, increasing pollen counts in many US areas from August through October. On average, each ragweed plant produces one billion pollen grains that can travel up to 400 miles because they are small and light. Urban dwellers, therefore, can be affected by ragweed as well as those living in rural areas.

People allergic to ragweed may experience sneezing, runny nose, and swollen, itchy, watery eyes. According to AAAAI, 80% of people with seasonal allergies also experience sleep problems, which can lead to fatigue, loss of concentration, and poor school or work performance. More than $3 billion is spent in the United States each year on lost school and work days, medication, and physician office visits related to allergic rhinitis.

Recent research, according to the release, has shown that higher levels of carbon dioxide caused by global warming are linked to the increased amount of pollen released by ragweed. The following tips, however, can help people reduce their exposure to ragweed and other pollens.

* Close windows at night to prevent pollen from entering your home.

* Use air conditioning because it cleans, cools, and dries the air.

* Minimize outdoor activities when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen time is between I0 AM and 4 PM.

* Keep car windows closed.

* Stay indoors when humidity is high,

* Vacation in areas that are pollen-free, such as the beach.

* Shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair.

* Do not hang sheets or clothing outside to dry.

* If over-the-counter medications do not help relieve symptoms, consult an allergist.

Pollen, Pollen Everywhere: Ragweed Season Starts Aug. 15 (news release, Milwaukee: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Aug 9, 2002) http:// www.aaaai.org/media/news_releases/2002/08/080902 .html (accessed 12 Aug 2002).

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