Your month-to-month seasonal allergies guide

Do you battle seasonal allergies? For some folks, there is no break from the itchy eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, and endless sneezing. There are seasonal allergies that people fight all year long.

If you're suffering from seasonal allergies, here is when to expect them at their worst, and when you may expect some relief, broken down in a our month-to-month guide.

Autumn

September

Nothing is more spectacular than the change of leaves to a vivid crimson and gold color. However, fall allergies are also in full swing. While you don’t have to worry as much with tree and flower pollen, the dreaded ragweed takes your breath away. This archvillain of weeds often causes some of the worst allergy symptoms of the year. The breezier the day, the more ragweed pollen will be in the air to challenge you. Take notice of the ragweed pollen count before you start your morning activities.

October

It’s the season to play in fall leaves and carve pumpkins with whimsical expressions. While the goblins and bats are flying in the Halloween winds, so are the irritating mold spores in warmer regions of the nation. Fortunately, some relief from your seasonal allergies is in sight.

November

Out of the whole year, brisk November usually offers blessed relief if you have seasonal allergy issues. In most areas, foliage is gone, and most plants are dormant, meaning a break from pollen. Among your blessings to count on Thanksgiving, you can be grateful for minimal allergy symptoms. Since you are spending more time inside, watch for reactions from trapped mold spores and pet dander. However, you should be careful before sitting down to that bountiful Thanksgiving feast as some foods could actually trigger allergies.

Winter

December

Old Man Winter’s blustery stay is marked by short days and long, chilly nights. While the snow is swirling and the temperature drops, seasonal allergy sufferers often get a brief reprieve from pollen and other irritating substances. Your enemy this month is the countless mold spores that thrive in areas of warmth and dampness in your home.

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Did you know that your holiday tree may be an allergy culprit? Put an end to the miserable coughing and sneezing, and make sure you check for any mold growth in every room, especially the bathroom. Consider displaying an artificial tree if you are sensitive to mold and evergreen allergies.

January

Ring in the New Year with smart ways to reduce the things that cause your allergies to flare up. January is usually the coldest month of the year, and you and your family are likely to spend more time indoors. Many people kick the heat up a notch to keep their place warm and cozy. Unfortunately, the circulating air stirs up household dust, which can send your allergy symptoms into overdrive. Dust mites can also cause skin irritation. Be sure to use HEPA filters for your HVAC unit and change them regularly. Extra vacuuming and dusting can minimize dust and pesky mites, so you have more symptom-free days.

February

You may be sharing love with your Valentine this month, but you won’t love what is happening outside. As early as February in many parts of the United States, the trees are waking from their winter slumber and are starting their annual pollen production. Just like other plant pollen, tree pollen can wreak havoc on your allergy-sensitive body. Always check the pollen count along with your daily forecast. If you must go outside, wearing a light scarf over your nose and mouth may thwart most of the drifting tree pollen.

Dealing with seasonal allergies is not fun for anyone, and they can really mess with your overall health. Thankfully, you can be proactive about your sinus issues by tuning into your local weather. Always keep your eye on the sky and listen to your local forecast.

Spring

March

If you had the winter blues all season, you yearn for sunshine and spring weather. Like the Ides of March, beware of the highest counts of tree pollen that can fuel the allergies. It can make breathing difficult and keep your eyes a watery, itchy mess. These symptoms are synonymous with spring allergies. Before you step out into the breezy day to welcome spring, check your area’s tree pollen count and be prepared.

April 

Here comes Peter Cottontail, April showers,  a burst of pollen from spring flowers, and unfortunately, more seasonal allergies. Beautiful April brings all the floral pollen that makes your seasonal allergies feel the worst. The effect is doubled if you have asthma or other respiratory issues. Talk to your allergy specialist about medications and precautions specifically for you. You can watch the world return to life while minimizing your discomfort.

May

Are you anticipating the balmy days of summer and maybe planning a family vacation? When you are fighting this month’s tree and flower allergens, it can put a damper on your plans. When the local pollen count is high, try to stay indoors as much as possible. You might consider talking to your doctor about tweaking your allergy care plan if you feel like you still aren’t getting relief.

Summer

June

Look out, seasonal allergy folks! Summer has arrived, and plant pollens are in full swing. June is the typical month that families like to travel and spend a lot of time outdoors. You would rather be sipping cocktails around the pool than sniffing, sneezing, and battling other allergic reactions. Since this month is peak allergy season in most areas, you must check the pollen count before enjoying a day in the sun.

July

This month celebrates independence and the gradual decline of tree and plant pollen. Before you light the sparklers and firecrackers, realize that July is also a time when fungus spores are building in the air. You may see heightened allergy symptoms if you are sensitive to mold and other fungi. Keeping tabs on your area fungus spore report, you will be ready.

August

The dog days of summer arrive in August with stifling heat and humidity in most areas. This condition creates a perfect environment for billions of mold spores to grow. Not only are you dealing with allergy symptoms from the spores, but the mold presents even more unhealthy issues. Try to stay indoors during the hottest days and especially when the mold count is up. A HEPA filter on your HVAC unit will reduce mold spores and other allergen particles effectively. The dog days of summer is also a great time to remember we’re not immune to pet allergies.

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