As summer turns to fall, many people in Houston look forward to cooler weather, football games, and pumpkin spice everything. But for millions of allergy sufferers, fall also marks the beginning of a less-welcome season—ragweed season. Ragweed pollen is one of the most common triggers of seasonal allergies, and in Houston, the warm climate can intensify symptoms. At McGovern Allergy and Asthma Clinic, board-certified allergists are here to help you understand ragweed allergies and find relief so you can enjoy the season without constant sneezing and congestion.
What Is Ragweed Season?
Ragweed is a flowering plant that produces large amounts of lightweight pollen. In Houston, ragweed season typically begins in late August and can last through November, peaking in mid-September. Just one ragweed plant can release billions of pollen grains, which can travel for miles through the air. That means even if you don’t see ragweed in your neighborhood, you may still feel the effects.
Common Symptoms of Ragweed Allergies
For those allergic to ragweed pollen, exposure can trigger uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Postnasal drip
- Coughing or wheezing
- Fatigue from disrupted sleep
In some people with asthma, ragweed exposure can make breathing issues worse. If you find that your asthma symptoms flare up in the fall, ragweed season may be a key culprit.
Why Ragweed Allergies Can Be Worse in Houston
Houston’s weather conditions make ragweed season particularly challenging. Warm temperatures and high humidity enable pollen to remain airborne for more extended periods, while mild fall weather allows ragweed plants to continue producing pollen well into November. Urban areas can also exacerbate symptoms, as air pollution may interact with pollen to intensify allergic reactions.
Tips to Manage Ragweed Allergies
Although ragweed season can be tough, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure and manage your symptoms:
- Track pollen counts. Many weather apps and allergy websites provide daily pollen forecasts. You can view the local pollen count on mcgovernallergy.com.
- Shower after being outdoors. Pollen sticks to your hair, skin, and clothing. Washing up and changing clothes after spending time outside can prevent pollen from spreading around your home.
- Keep windows closed. Keep pollen out of your home and make sure all windows are closed.
- Use HEPA filters. Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can effectively trap pollen indoors, thereby improving air quality.
Treatment Options for Ragweed Allergies
If lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough, McGovern Allergy offers a variety of treatment options to help you take control of your symptoms:
- Allergy Testing: Help identify whether ragweed is your primary trigger or if other allergens, such as mold or grass, are also contributing to your symptoms.
- Allergy Medications: Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and other medications can provide quick relief from sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes.
- Allergy Shots (immunotherapy): This treatment can train your immune system to become less reactive to ragweed pollen over time, providing long-term relief.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy: These FDA-approved tablets are administered under the tongue and serve as an alternative treatment option for alleviating symptoms.
Why Choose McGovern Allergy in Houston?
Since 1956, McGovern Allergy and Asthma Clinic has been trusted by Houstonians for expert care in allergies and asthma. Their board-certified allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating seasonal allergies, such as those caused by ragweed, helping patients of all ages breathe easier and live healthier lives. With personalized treatment plans, cutting-edge testing, and compassionate care, their team can help relieve symptoms caused by ragweed season.
Don’t Let Ragweed Season Control Your Fall
Fall should be a time for enjoying cooler weather and family activities—not constant allergy misery. If ragweed season leaves you sneezing, wheezing, or feeling run-down, the allergy specialists at McGovern Allergy are ready to help.
Call or visit mcgovernallergy.com to schedule your appointment. Relief from ragweed allergies is possible—and it starts here in Houston at McGovern Allergy.