Fall Allergies Are No Joke: How to Protect Yourself This Season

Fall allergy season is here, bringing itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion to more than 80 million Americans. Unlike spring allergies triggered by tree pollen, autumn’s biggest culprit is ragweed—a single plant can release up to a billion grains of pollen that travel hundreds of miles. Add in mold from damp leaves and indoor dust mites, and relief may not come until the first hard frost. Experts advise minimizing exposure by staying indoors during peak pollen hours, washing off after being outside, and using medications or allergy shots if needed.