(BlackDoctor.org) -- Fall is almost as bad for allergies as spring. Allergens fall into two categories: perennial and seasonal. Perennial allergies are apparent all year long, whereas seasonal allergies pop up during season changes when plants grow. In the spring, trees pollinate. In the summer months, especially in early summer, grasses pollinate. In late summer and into fall, weeds pollinate.

Ragweed

A single ragweed plant can produce one billion pollen grains per season. Ragweed grows abundantly throughout the South, North and Midwest, and its lightweight pollen grains can travel up to 400 miles in the wind, which makes it a prime source of fall allergens.

Ragweed can be found growing in vacant lots, along the road and in open fields.

Other Weeds

In various parts of the country, goldenrod, curly dock, lamb’s quarters, pigweed, sheep sorrel, and sagebrush can all cause fall allergies.

Molds

Most people with allergies are aware of the affect that indoor molds can have on them, but remain unaware of the risks of outdoor molds. Outdoor molds first appear in early spring, but thrive until the first frost. They are common in soil, compost piles, and in the leaves that cover the ground during the fall.

Treating Fall Allergies

• Be very cautious on windy days. Wind is allergens’ prime mode of transportation.
• Try using a face mask when you are outside, especially between 5 and 10 a.m. and on windy days.
• Remove pollen from your skin and hair by showering frequently.
• Keep your windows closed and turn on the air conditioner.
• Dry your clothes inside in the dryer instead of hanging clothes outside.
• Have decaying leaves removed from your yard and gutters.
• If you rake leaves in the fall, wear a face mask.
• When you first turn on your car air conditioner, leave your windows open and avoid breathing the air for several minutes until mold spores can disperse.

BDO (http://BlackDoctor.org) is the World’s largest and most comprehensive online health resource specifically targeted to African Americans.

By Shawn Johnson, BDO Staff Writer