What is Triggering Your Fall Allergies?

Just like spring, fall is prime time for many people with allergies. Many people blame spending additional time indoors with mold and mildew irritants for their increase in allergy symptoms. What are some of the other common triggers to be on the lookout for?

Ragweed
The most common fall outdoor irritant is ragweed. Ragweed blooms in mid-August and continues into late October. It is common on roadsides, in vacant lots, or in other large grassy areas. In an average season, each ragweed plant can produce up to one billion grains of ragweed pollen. These grains can travel up to 400 miles in the air, due to their lightweight texture.

Dust Mites
Allergies to dust mites are common in the home. Dust mites are particularly prevalent in warm, moist areas with ready access to dead flakes of human skin, such as bedding, upholstered furniture, or plush carpeting. Studies show that close to 85% of U.S. homes have a bedroom with easily detectable levels of dust mite allergens.

Pet Dander
People often associate pet allergies with the hair, fur, or feathers of the animal. In fact, the dander (tiny pieces of dead skin that flake off from just beneath the hair, fur or feathers) is usually to blame. Pet dander is easily airborne and can spread to all areas of your home, even where pets are not allowed.

Cockroaches
Cockroach allergens comes from the feces, saliva, and bodies of the bugs. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, when one roach is seen in the basement or kitchen, it is safe to assume that at least 800 roaches are hidden under the kitchen sink, in closets, and the like. Studies show that almost 3/4 of urban homes have some level of cockroach infestation.


Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.