Ragweed allergy, also called hay fever, affects people mostly in the fall when airborne spores are at their highest level. Allergy season, although temporary, can cause moderate discomfort in individuals with severe allergies to ragweed. Antihistamine medications block the production of histamine, the chemical that creates the bodies natural defenses to the allergen, and are often effective in getting you through allergy season. By blocking the production of histamine, antihistamines can prevent defenses like sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes from getting out of control.
Nasal Symptoms
Allergic rhinitis refers to the reaction produced when an individual is exposed to allergens, including ragweed. As the allergen is inhaled, it can cause irritation in the nasal passages, leading to sneezing and an increase in mucus production. Though mucus is helpful in trapping the allergen and helping it exit the body under normal circumstances, allergy sufferers are plagued by excess mucus that can lead a persistent runny nose and postnasal drip, where mucus runs down the back of the throat, causing bad breath.
Congestion and Pain
When the lining of the nasal passages becomes inflamed or irritated by the ragweed pollens, the result is congestion. As the lining swells, the passages are narrowed. The result is a feeling of a full nose. This congestion can lead to a headache and sinus pressure, and there may even be a blue tint to the skin beneath the eyes. Fluid pressure can also lead to ear pain that does not necessarily suggest an ear infection.
Itching
The eyes, nose, throat and roof of the mouth may become itchy when the ragweed allergen enters the airways. The result can be excessive sneezing, coughing and/or watery eyes. The eyes can also become red from the irritation. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) explains that the eyelids and surrounding tissues can become puffy and swollen.
Other Symptoms
A combination of mucus production and congestion can diminish your sense of smell or taste. Ragweed allergy is considered to be a seasonal affliction, but it can interfere with daily activities. The Mayo Clinic suggests individuals may suffer from sleeplessness and fatigue during the peak allergy season. This can contribute to irritability, diminished attention span, slowed thinking and a worsened memory, suggests the UMM. Individuals with asthma may notice an increase in attacks when their breathing becomes more difficult with the constriction of the airways.
