If you're one of the 10% to 20% of Americans with a ragweed allergy, autumn may not just be about colorful leaves and Halloween fun, but also sneezing, itchy eyes, and a stuffy nose. Mold is another common fall allergen. Unlike pollen, mold doesn’t disappear with the first frost and can collect in fallen leaves. If you're allergic to mold, you might also be sensitive to indoor allergens like dust and pet dander year-round. Here are some tips to help fight fall allergies and how acupuncture can provide relief.
1. Avoid Ragweed Outside and Keep It Out
Ragweed pollen peaks during late summer and fall, with the highest counts just after dawn. Check local pollen counts regularly and avoid going outside on high pollen days, especially in the morning or on warm, dry days. To keep pollen outside, close windows and use air conditioning as long as possible, including in your car. Central air with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter is best for trapping allergens. Limit your pets' outdoor time and bathe them frequently to avoid bringing pollen inside.
2. Keep Mold Outside and Eliminate Indoor Mold
Outdoor molds thrive in leaf piles, rotting logs, and compost heaps. Remove dead vegetation from around your house and ensure your gutters direct water away from the foundation. Wear a mask when doing fall cleanup and wash work clothes right after coming inside. Indoors, mold loves damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Check for leaks and fix them promptly. Remove old, damp carpeting and clean moldy surfaces with a solution of bleach and water. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly after cleaning.
3. Improve Indoor Air Quality and Clean Smart
To reduce indoor allergens, use air conditioning with a HEPA filter to combat mold, pollen, dust, and dander. Keep indoor humidity below 45% with a hygrometer to prevent mold growth. Use a dehumidifier if necessary, and always run exhaust fans in the bathroom after showers. For cleaning, use a wet mop and a vacuum with a HEPA filter to avoid stirring up dust and allergens. Vacuum floors, furniture, and drapes regularly. If you're sensitive to allergens, wear a mask while cleaning and leave the area afterward to avoid any airborne particles.
4. Keep Your Bedroom Allergen-Free
Since you spend about a third of your life sleeping, make sure your bedroom is a sanctuary from allergens. Keep pets out, as they can bring in pollen and dander. Use allergy-proof covers for mattresses and pillows, and avoid heavy fabrics in bedding and drapes. Wash your bedding weekly in hot water (130°F) and dry on high heat to kill dust mites and mold.
5. Watch Out for Cockroaches
Cockroach allergies, especially in urban areas, are more common than you might think. Cockroaches can be linked to asthma attacks and may lurk in hidden areas of your home. A professional exterminator can help eliminate this potential allergen from your environment.
6. How Acupuncture Can Help with Fall Allergies
Acupuncture is an effective treatment for managing seasonal allergies. It works by stimulating specific points on the body to regulate the nervous and immune systems, reducing allergic reactions and improving symptoms.
Regulating the Immune System: Acupuncture can help your body better manage allergens like pollen and dust. By calming the immune system's overreaction, it can reduce symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.
Reducing Inflammation: Acupuncture helps release natural anti-inflammatory substances (like endorphins), which can reduce the inflammation caused by allergic reactions, making you feel more comfortable.
Calming the Nervous System: By stimulating nerve endings, acupuncture influences the brain and central nervous system to control excessive reactions to environmental allergens. This can alleviate itching, congestion, and headaches.
Improving Respiratory Function: Acupuncture can relax respiratory muscles, making breathing easier and relieving nasal congestion, especially in people suffering from allergic rhinitis.
If you’re looking for natural ways to combat fall allergies or want more information on how acupuncture can help, contact us today at Balance Art Acupuncture! We offer personalized treatments to help you enjoy the season without the sneezing.
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