DETROIT – Only a few days into autumn, and already feeling it?
For many people in Michigan, fall means changing leaves, cooler temperatures and worsening allergies. Why is that?
Pollen peaks in late summer, early autumn, so right now.
One of the biggest culprits is ragweed pollen. A single ragweed plant can release billions of pollen grains, and on a windy day, those grains can travel for miles.
And it’s not just pollen.
It turns out “The Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground” is more than just a White Stripes banger. It can also describe one of the reasons fall can be rough on allergy sufferers.
Falling leaves can trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for mold spores. And when you start cleaning up the yard, you can stir those spores into the air.
Even mowing the lawn can be a mixed bag. Keeping grass cut can help prevent it from producing as much pollen, but mowing can also stir up pollen and other particles already in the yard.
As temperatures cool, another seasonal factor can come into play. The hard frost that typically brings relief from some fall allergens can arrive later than it once did as temperatures warm. That can extend the period when certain plants are producing pollen.
Then there’s the shift indoors.
As temperatures drop, people tend to spend more time inside, where they can be exposed to dust, pet dander and indoor air pollutants. Opening windows can help bring in fresh air, but it can also allow outdoor pollen to enter the home.
So what can you do?
Check daily pollen counts and replace or clean air filters as recommended. Keep windows closed when pollen counts are high. If possible, avoid activities such as raking when conditions are especially dusty or pollen-heavy.
Showering after spending time outdoors can help remove pollen from your skin and hair. You can also brush pets after they’ve been outside to reduce the amount of pollen they bring indoors.
And, yes, wearing a mask outdoors can help reduce your exposure to airborne allergens.
