Ragweed is at its worst between August and September, according to UVA Health Allergist Dr. Jeff Wilson, making it a good period for allergy patients to feel its effects.
Mold and dust mites both flourish in high temperatures and humidity.
A runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and watery, itchy eyes are all symptoms.
“Allergies are a lot less likely to present with things like fever, cough, sore throat, and achy muscles,” he explained. “Things like that are fairly common in COVID and other viral infections.” And then COVID can also produce GI symptoms in some people, which is really rare for a respiratory allergy.”
If you’re not sure, Dr. Wilson advises taking a COVID test.
He advises a once-daily oral antihistamine or steroid nasal spray to address allergies. If such therapies do not work, he suggests seeing an allergist.
According to Dr. Wilson, there is evidence that climate change will affect allergy seasons.
“A lot of the day data shows that with climate change, allergy seasons will last longer.” As a result, starting earlier and continuing longer is likely. “And I think that’s probably going to be true for a lot of things, including fall allergens,” he added.