People who get hay fever allergy symptoms beginning in early autumn and lasting a short period suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis. Some individuals may not experience allergic reactions to spring and summer trees and grasses, but will develop itching and breathing problems from fall ragweed or leaf mold. Pollen production from ragweed and related plants, such as sagebrush, marsh elder, feverfew and lamb’s quarters, peaks in September and may last through November. The fungal spores of leaf molds may also be plentiful during early and late autumn.
Eye Problems
Allergic reactions to late-summer and early-autumn ragweed pollen and leaf mold trigger the release of histamines in the human body. This abnormal immune system response may begin with allergy problems in the sensitive eye area. As the Cleveland Clinic reports, histamines inflame the mucous membranes of the eyes to cause itching and watering. Greater than normal bloodflow around the eyes may also create swelling, redness and dark undereye circles. Dark circles, or allergic shiners, may persist at other times of the year in individuals who are sensitive to multiple hay fever allergens.
Throat Problems
Histamine-caused inflammation also affects the lining of the mouth and throat during an allergic reaction. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that hay fever allergy symptoms here produce itching, a sore throat and a dry cough. The swelling of the mucous membranes acts to block entry of more pollen or mold allergens from entering the respiratory system through the mouth and airways. Coughing is the body’s attempt to force out the pollen grains or mold spores that have already invaded. Breathing problems can arise from these allergy symptoms when they are compounded by hot, dry weather or dry indoor air from heaters or air conditioners.
Breathing Problems
Nasal allergy symptoms usually develop shortly after or along with eye and throat disorders. An allergic reaction to ragweed pollen or leaf fungi inflames the nasal membranes and causes itching. Mucus is produced and diverted to the sinus cavities, nose and throat, to drain away accumulated allergen particles. The Cleveland Clinic relates that histamines also engage the sneezing reflex, as another means of allergen expulsion. The result is the plethora of nasal symptoms that can cause breathing problems. A runny nose and postnasal drip may fail to rid the body of excess mucus and allergens. This contaminated fluid settles in the sinuses to cause congestion. A cycle of an alternately runny and stuffy nose, punctuated by sneezing, is the hallmark of an autumn hay fever condition.
