Got the sniffles again? Don’t worry, it’s common. As many of us know, the spring season is notorious for bringing about bad allergies.

What we might not realize, however, is that fall allergies are just about as common. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood gives you the scoop on fall allergies.

What Causes Fall Allergies?

The two biggest culprits are ragweed and mold. Ragweed pollinates for hundreds of miles and irritates the sinuses of many people. Mold, however, is prevalent during this time of year because of the presence of wet leaves.

When it rains, the leaves fall and make piles. If leaf piles aren’t raked up and disposed of in a timely manner, mold can grow at the bottom of them.

Other Fall Allergy Causes

• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Mildew

How Can I Ease the Symptoms of Fall Allergies?

While over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants work well for most, experts say that the best thing to do for long-lasting allergy relief is to make a few lifestyle changes.

As with most things, drinking more water is a great way to help your body out. Staying hydrated will thin out your mucus, which allows sinus irritants to exit your body quicker. Another easy way to manage your allergy symptoms is by monitoring the pollen count outside. If you are allergic to ragweed this season, minimize your time outside if the pollen count is high.

Other Non-Medical Allergy Relievers

• Shower as soon as you get inside to wash lingering allergens off your body.
• Avoid hanging clothes outside to dry.
• Buy a dehumidifier to lessen the amount of indoor allergens.
• Vacuum and dust at least once a week.
• Change the air filter often.

Are your fall allergy symptoms starting to get to you? Visit us at AFC Urgent Care Greenwood and we can take care of you.