What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergy and What Are the Treatments?

For those folks who find themselves suffering from spring and summer allergies, ragweed season is certainly one season you dread the most. If you are an allergy sufferer, there are many spring and summertime triggers, but the pollen that is generated by ragweed packs far more of a punch than does the pollen from trees for instance. It sometimes seems as if there will be no relief to be found.

It can become so severe for some folks that the hospitals of some communities can see a marked increase of patients seen for asthma symptoms.

Being as light as it is allows ragweed pollen to be carried great distances and being highly reactive as it is allows only a very small amount per volume of air to cause a great deal of distress to a compromised immune system.

It is suggested that you thoroughly understand your ragweed allergy symptoms before you embark on a treatment regimen to try to control your symptoms. What most folks may not realize is that the symptoms for ragweed allergies and the common cold share quite a few similarities. The key to proper treatment is knowing and understanding the similarities between the common cold and symptoms caused by ragweed allergies.

Some of the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergy

Itchy Eyes
Stuffy Nose or Runny Nose
Sneezing
Headache
Skin Itchiness

Some of the more common symptoms that are shared by both ragweed allergies and the common cold are stuffy sinuses and/or runny nose, itchy eyes, headache, sneezing, etc.

Difficulty Breathing
Wheezing
Skin Rashes
Cramps or Abdominal Pain
Vomiting or General Nausea

There can even be more serious symptoms caused by ragweed allergies if the symptoms mentioned above are not addressed in a timely fashion.

Some of these symptoms can include having trouble breathing or wheezing, abdominal cramps or pain, skin rashes, and may even include feelings of nausea and vomiting.

The more severe symptoms we've discussed above may point to a risk of anaphylaxis. This is a serious and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that manifests itself in an inability to breath resulting from a restricted airway.

If you find yourself experiencing any of the more serious symptoms mentioned above, you should consider seeing a doctor. If you are having difficulty breathing you need to get to an emergency room or have someone call 911.

How Are Ragweed Allergies Diagnosed?

As we mentioned earlier, other conditions such as the common cold or even something such as chemical sensitivity may be confused with ragweed allergy symptoms. The common cold can result in symptoms such as blocked nasal passages, runny noses, sneezing, and headaches. Itchy eyes and rashes may be caused by certain chemical sensitivities.

If you are suspecting that you may be allergic to ragweed, you would be advised to make an appointment to see an allergist. You should be able to set this up through your primary care provider. Your allergist will be able to determine the particular allergens if any, that may be giving you issues.

If a trip to an allergist is not within your budget or schedule, you may attempt to determine to a lessor degree what might be causing your symptoms. You first need to develop an understanding of differing allergy symptoms by doing your own research and identifying local sources and resources such as local pollen counts for instance.

By developing an understanding of your symptoms as they relate to the types of allergens that may be present in your area, you may be able to identify the potential cause of your symptoms.

What Is the Treatment for Ragweed Allergies?

When you are considering your treatment options for ragweed allergy remember that this type of allergy is best dealt with as are all types of pollen caused allergies - avoidance.

You might want to consider remaining home indoors during the peak hours that pollination occurs. An air purifier is also a great way to filter out allergens.

As always, if you suspect you are suffering from allergies, it is always advisable to confer with your health care provider. Your doctor might plan to recommend shots or medications especially if you tend to develop a fever during your hay fever outbreak.