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Ragweed Allergy Remedy

Having a ragweed allergy means your body is reacting in a hypersensitive way when inhaling the pollen from ragweed. Although this allergy is seasonal, it can be very uncomfortable and debilitating. Aside from medications, there are many ways to avoid this trigger and to help reduce the symptoms of your allergy.

  1. Ragweed

    • Ragweed plants are weeds that are generally found in the midwestern and eastern states. These weeds are known to grow in open grass fields, along river banks, near roadsides and in vacant lots. Ragweed thrives in very warm climates, so the season for allergy sufferers tends to occur from July through the end of October.

    Susceptibility

    • Not everyone who has allergies is allergic to ragweed. Approximately 75 percent of those who have pollen allergies also will be allergic to ragweed. If you are unsure if you have allergies, it's a good idea to see an allergist to get tested. Generally, if you have a family history of allergies and/or asthma, there is a chance that you will be susceptible to allergies yourself.

    Symptoms

    • Ragweed allergies produce the symptoms that most allergists refer to as hay fever. Reactions include itchy, watery eyes; nasal congestion; itchy throat and sneezing. Sleeping problems also can occur, which can lead to fatigue and poor work performance during the day. In more severe cases, headaches, asthma and sinus problems can occur.

    Preventive Remedies

    • Preventing ragweed from being inhaled is a crucial step in keeping flare ups under control. During ragweed season, use a Hepa vacuum and air purifier to remove the ragweed pollen that comes into your house. Also, check your local pollen forecasts online. If they are high, try to stay indoors as much as possible and drive with your windows up. Another good alternative is to schedule trips to areas where ragweed is not in season.

    Medical Remedies

    • There are many over-the-counter oral, eye and nasal antihistamines available. If you find that these are not doing the trick, talk to your doctor about a stronger prescription antihistamine. For those who have severe reactions, allergy shots can be a good alternative. Over a period of a few years, allergic reactions are known to improve dramatically, if not completely disappear. Talk to your allergist to see if this is a good course of action for you.

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