Another problem with ragweed is that it’s everywhere. In Northern America, it grows in fields, along roadsides, and anywhere dirt has been disturbed or exposed enough for seeds to germinate. In fact, Ragweed seeds can even lie dormant for decades waiting to germinate when conditions become right. Even allergy sufferers in big cities like Boston, New York, Chicago, and Detroit can’t escape the wrath of ragweed since the plant grows in abundance in vacant urban lots.
Ragweed allergen is thought to cause around 3.8 million days of work or school to be missed each year. Moreover, around eighty percent of ragweed allergy sufferers experience trouble sleeping, leading to additional work and school problems. Of the ragweed allergy sufferers who are able to go to work, nearly one-third of them report decreased efficiency.
According to a study done in 2002, ragweed allergies can also lead to significant mental fatigue, motivational fatigue, mood swings, and even depression. It makes complete sense that people who feel physically ill from allergic rhinitis are often in bad moods, especially if they’re having trouble sleeping as well.
If you suffer from ragweed allergy, be prepared for a particularly nasty ragweed season. The hot, dry summer will cause very high ragweed pollen counts. Keep your windows closed to keep the pollen outside, and be aware that pollen also gets inside your house by sticking to your shoes, clothing, bags, and pets. Use window filters to make sure those tiny pollen grains stay outside. Use air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and air purifiers to cool, dry out, and clean the air.
Stay indoors when pollen counts are high. Peak pollen counts are normally between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. Keep your car windows closed when driving, and use a portable air purifier in your car for added protection. When you have to go outside, take a shower as soon as you get back inside because pollen sticks to your hair and skin.
It is very important to minimize your exposure to other known allergens during ragweed season because allergy symptoms appear whenever your immune system’s Total Allergen Load reaches its maximum level. Avoid any irritating chemicals or odors, and encase your mattress and pillows with allergy relief bedding. And if you’re having trouble sleeping, there’s no better solution than one of our air purifiers.