Ragweed Season
Ragweed is a common allergen in Canada, and its pollen can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. In this blog post, we'll explore what ragweed is, when ragweed allergy season occurs in Canada, and how to manage your allergy.
What is Ragweed?
Ragweed is a plant that grows throughout North America, particularly in areas with lots of open spaces, such as fields, roadsides, and gardens. The ragweed plant produces pollen, which is a common allergen that can trigger hay fever or allergic rhinitis.
Ragweed Allergy Season in Canada
Ragweed allergy season in Canada typically runs from mid-August to early October, although this can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and geography. In general, peak season tends to be in early to mid-September.
During ragweed season, the plant releases pollen into the air, which can be carried for miles by the wind. This means that even if you don't live near a field or garden where ragweed is growing, you can still be affected by its pollen.
Symptoms & Diagnosis of Ragweed Allergy
If you're allergic to ragweed, you may experience a range of symptoms when exposed to its pollen. Common symptoms include:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Scratchy throat
Postnasal drip
Coughing
Fatigue
In some cases, ragweed allergy can also trigger asthma symptoms, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. The IgE blood test patients complete during their Biscuit intake tests for ragweed allergy.
Managing Ragweed Allergy Symptoms
If you're affected by ragweed allergy, there are several things you can do to manage your symptoms, in addition to taking your sublingual immunotherapy daily. Here are a few tips:
Stay indoors when pollen counts are high: Check the daily pollen count in your area and try to stay indoors when it's particularly high. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering your home.
Use a HEPA air filter: A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can help trap pollen and other allergens in your home. Be sure to clean the filter regularly.
Rinse your sinuses: Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help rinse out pollen and other irritants from your sinuses, reducing symptoms such as congestion and postnasal drip.
Avoid exposure: Try to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times. Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove any pollen that may be on your skin or clothing.
Conclusion
Ragweed allergy season can be a challenging time for those who are affected, but by taking steps to manage your symptoms, you can minimise their impact. If you're experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, Biscuit Health can help! Get started today by downloading our app and signing up for our treatment plan.