Ragweed Allergy Season Returns: 26% of Americans Affected
Ragweed pollen, a common trigger for seasonal allergies in the US, is set to cause discomfort for millions of Americans once again. The pollen season, which can start as early as late July and last until mid-October, is a challenging time for the 26% of the US population who suffer from ragweed allergies.
Ragweed plants, with at least 17 species in North America, are soft-stemmed weeds that thrive in rural areas and open spaces with plenty of sunlight. Between late spring and fall, these plants release tiny pollen grains to fertilize others, which can travel hundreds of miles and survive mild winters.
When people with allergies breathe in ragweed pollen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose. These allergies are unlikely to disappear once developed, but symptoms can be managed with medications and allergy shots.
Climate change is exacerbating the ragweed allergy problem. Rising temperatures and increasing dryness create ideal conditions for the spread of invasive species like ragweed and prolong the blooming season. As ragweed pollen becomes more prevalent, so does the need for effective allergy management strategies.
