Image for article titled Maybe That ‘Virus’ Is Actually a Fall Allergy

Since the beginning of the Pandemic, there has been a lot of reason to be anxious about the fact that you might be sick. It's possible that you have fall allergies and not know it, because fall and winter bring cold and flu seasons.

What are the most common fall allergy triggers?

You probably know that there is an allergy to the pollen in the air, but you don't think about the fall allergies. Some of the more surprising allergy symptoms are normal.

  • Weeds like ragweed, which Lomas said “are the most common fall allergy triggers in most of the U.S.”
  • Molds accumulating on wet leaves
  • Stinging insects like yellow jackets or wasps
  • Indoor allergens like animal dander and dust mites, which you might not have noticed during warmer months when you spent more time outside

In August, September, and October stinging insects are the most aggressive and can cause serious allergic reactions, so it's important to take extra precautions when working outside.

Allergists noted something called the September Spike before people started wearing masks. There has been an increase in illnesses but also higher levels of ragweed. During the second summer and autumn season, when the temperatures are warm, fall allergies can occur.

How do you know if you’re sick or experiencing allergies?

It can be difficult to figure out what is going on with allergies and infections. Eye symptoms like redness and swelling are more common with allergies than with sneezing. It's more of a sign of allergies if you have any kind of itching. You don't need to have all three of them.

She said that if you have a flu-like symptom, such as a body ache, you may have a viral illness. A sore throat is one of the symptoms that can show up in an illness or allergy, but it is more common if you have an infectious disease. If you have asthma, wheezing can be a symptom.

She said that if you have recently had contact with someone who was sick, you should be suspicious of infections and allergies. Go to the doctor if you don't know what to think.

What to do about fall seasonal allergies

You might be able to handle this with over-the-counter remedies if you suspect that your symptoms are the result of a fall. If your symptoms continue to bother you, you may want to see an allergist, who can offer more treatment and testing.

If you're offered immunotherapy, you'll be given controlled doses, either as an injection or a pill, under your tongue, to reduce your sensitivity to allergens.