Autumn’s vibrant foliage creates the backdrop for memorable fall festivities like hiking or visiting a pumpkin patch. With the beauty of the season, what may come is a less welcome companion—fall allergies. While sneezing and eye irritation are often linked to spring, autumn brings its own set of unexpected triggers. What might be causing these flare-ups?
The Main Culprits of Fall Allergies
As temperatures drop after summer, many blame the cooler weather for eye discomfort. But the real culprit often lurks in the crisp autumn air. Ragweed blooms between August to late October and survives until the first frost. This airborne allergen is the primary cause of fall allergies. [1]
Did you know a single ragweed plant can generate up to a billion pollen grains in one season? [2] Ragweed is observed across Canada, particularly in the East, and its pollens may travel up to 400 miles from the origin in windy conditions. It is no surprise that ragweed contributes to the itchy and burning eyes experienced by many Canadians! [2-4]
An additional allergen that may contribute to fall allergies is mould spores. Beneath the fallen leaves, mould spores may settle. The barrier of leaves traps warmth and moisture that promote mould growth! Growing mould spores (or colonies) may be the cause of allergic reactions as well. [5]
Autumn activities like visiting pumpkin patches, hiking through leaf-covered trails, or even spending time at outdoor festivals are perfect ways to immerse yourself in the season’s beauty. However, these fun outings can also increase exposure to common fall allergens, which may trigger eye discomfort and irritation.
After strolling through a pumpkin patch or hike in nature, there is a greater chance to encounter ragweed pollen and mould spores. Ragweed thrives in open fields and rural areas. Likewise, mould spores flourish under fallen leaves and in damp soil, which are abundant in hiking trails and open fields. These allergens can cling to the clothes, hair, and skin, making it easy to bring them back home.
The following proactive steps may help to minimize fall allergy symptoms:
Wash clothes and hands after spending time outdoors to remove allergens
Shower after outdoor activities to reduce the risk of allergen exposure
Clean and change the bedsheets regularly
What about allergy relief while spending time outdoors? Lubricating eye drops such as HYLO-DUAL® may be of benefit: an all-round drop for allergy and dry eye relief, providing immediate comfort from irritation for a long time.
HYLO-DUAL® is also available in a starter pack size. HYLO-DUAL® mini contains 5mL and 150 drops, which shares the same advantages!
Ectoine helps relieve allergy symptoms such as itching and burning
High-quality Sodium Hyaluronate provides long-lasting dry eye relief
Preservative-free and phosphate-free
Both HYLO-DUAL® mini and HYLO-DUAL® can be used while wearing contact lenses and are suitable for children aged 6 and above.
What is just as important? Cleaning the eyelids Allergens can cling to the eyelids, so it's important to gently cleanse them with feel-good, soap-free CALMO® Lid Care and NACLINO™ Lid Wipes. Learn about proper daily eyelid hygiene here.
Should you have any concerns about your health or eye health, please consult with your health professional for medical assistance.
CandorVision™ – Your eyes are everything!
References
North ML, Soliman M, Walker T, Steacy LM, Ellis AK. Controlled Allergen Challenge Facilities and Their Unique Contributions to Allergic Rhinitis Research. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2015 Apr;15(4):11. doi: 10.1007/s11882-015-0514-4. PMID: 26130471.
Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America [Internet]. Ragweed Pollen Allergy; [cited 2024 Oct 3]. Available from: https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pollen-allergy/ragweed-pollen/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjY64BhCaARIsAIfc7YZrKjVMvDTDYdq3g2nhxowVN0BQAngKwJpa46ACmk-o4Uq6vLUaZMIaAv1_EALw_wc
Gouvernement du Québec [Internet]. Identifying and limiting the presence of ragweed; [cited 2024 Oct 3].
Available from: https://www.quebec.ca/en/housing-territory/healthy-living-environment/identifying-and-limiting-the-presence-of-ragweed
Chai C. Global News [Internet]. Everything Canadians need to know about autumn allergies - National | Globalnews.ca; 2017 Sep 19 [cited 2024 Oct 3]. Available from: https://globalnews.ca/news/3755572/everything-canadians-need-to-know-about-autumn-allergies/.
Harvard Health [Internet]. Fall allergen alert - Harvard Health; [cited 2024 Oct 3].
Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/fall-allergen-alert
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