asthma

Fall Allergies and Asthma: Know the Triggers and Stay Ahead of Symptoms

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A woman running in fall with asthma

Fall has arrived in southeastern Connecticut, bringing cooler mornings, changing leaves, and, for many people, a return of allergy symptoms. Ragweed pollen and mold can make this a difficult season for people with allergies or asthma. Cooler air and respiratory illnesses may add to the challenge.

A few practical steps can help you recognize your triggers and keep symptoms under control.

Know What May Be Causing Your Symptoms

Ragweed is a common fall allergy trigger. Its pollen can cause sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy eyes. Mold can also be a concern, especially around damp leaves outdoors or moisture inside the home.

For people with asthma, these triggers may bring on coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Asthma symptoms can also worsen when the air turns cold or when someone develops a respiratory infection. If you are unsure what is causing recurring symptoms, talk with a healthcare provider.

Reduce Your Exposure

You do not have to stay inside all season, but small changes can help:

  • Pay attention to pollen and air quality reports. If pollen triggers your symptoms, consider moving yardwork or other outdoor activities to a better day.
  • Keep pollen out of your living space. Close windows when pollen levels are high, and change clothes and shower after spending time outdoors.
  • Use care with fallen leaves. Damp leaf piles can contain mold. If raking or yard cleanup worsens your symptoms, ask someone else to handle it when possible.
  • Address indoor moisture. Fix leaks, dry wet areas promptly, and use ventilation or a dehumidifier where needed. The EPA explains how mold can affect allergies and asthma.

Check Your Asthma Plan Before Symptoms Show

If you have asthma, make sure you know how to follow your asthma action plan, have access to your prescribed medication, and understand when to seek help. Take medication as directed, even when you feel well. If you are coughing at night, limiting activities because of breathing symptoms, or needing your reliever medication more often, contact your healthcare provider to review your treatment plan.

Fall is also a good time to think about respiratory illness prevention. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV can trigger asthma attacks. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccinations are recommended for you, and take everyday steps to avoid getting sick.

Get urgent medical help if breathing becomes difficult or your prescribed quick-relief treatment is not helping. Call 911 for severe trouble breathing or difficulty speaking because of shortness of breath.

Fall allergies and asthma are manageable, but persistent symptoms deserve attention. Knowing your triggers, limiting exposure, and having a plan in place can help you enjoy the season more comfortably.

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Asthma attacks are common in early fall — how to reduce your risk

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girl using her inhaler

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. This can make breathing difficult and trigger wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks can be mild or severe, and they can even be life-threatening.

Why Are Asthma Attacks Common in Early Fall?

There are a few reasons why asthma attacks are common in early fall, especially for children:

  • Allergens: Early fall is a peak season for many allergens, including ragweed pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. These allergens can trigger asthma symptoms in people who are allergic to them.
  • Respiratory infections: Children are more likely to get respiratory infections, such as the common cold and the flu, in the fall. These infections can also trigger asthma symptoms.
  • Weather changes: The weather in the fall can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and humidity. These changes can also trigger asthma symptoms.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Having an Asthma Attack in the Peak Season

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of having an asthma attack in the peak season:

  • Take your asthma medication as prescribed by your doctor. This includes both controller medications, which help to prevent asthma attacks, and quick-relief medications, which are used to treat asthma attacks.
  • Avoid your asthma triggers. If you know what triggers your asthma symptoms, try to avoid them as much as possible.
  • Get a flu shot every year. The flu can trigger asthma attacks, so it’s important to get a flu shot every year.
  • Monitor your asthma symptoms closely. If you notice any changes in your asthma symptoms, such as more frequent wheezing or coughing, talk to your doctor right away.

Additional Tips for Children

If your child has asthma, there are a few additional things you can do to help them reduce their risk of having an asthma attack in the peak season:

  • Make sure your child is taking their asthma medication as prescribed by their doctor. It’s important to talk to your child about their asthma and why it’s important to take their medication.
  • Help your child avoid their asthma triggers. This may mean helping them to check the pollen count before going outside or helping them to clean their room regularly.
  • Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently. This can help to reduce the spread of germs that can trigger asthma attacks.
  • Talk to your child’s school about their asthma. Make sure that the school staff knows about your child’s asthma and what to do if they have an asthma attack.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of having an asthma attack in the peak season.

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