Tips For Fall

Autumn is in full swing! Hurricane Irene shuffled off the remnants of summer and hurried away the last stretch of late summer in September. But with that comes some beautiful times to still be outdoors. If you continue to be active outside, you may notice an increase in seasonal allergies this year.

In August, ragweed in particular started in full force. And with the hurricane rain and wind, along with a rainy stretch in early September, it has been growing, well, like a weed! The body’s reaction to this plant may seem like a slight cold or even flu but could actually be an allergic reaction. When faced with an allergen or pathogen that our body wants to rid, it goes into a histamine response, fighting to push it out. And with the falling leaves, mold can also trigger a similar physical response. For such allergic reactions, that can mean itchy eyes, sneezing, post-nasal drip, scratchy throat and breathing difficulties. Even slight nausea can occur as a result of post-nasal drip, which goes to the stomach, being added like corrosion to the delicate balance of digestion.

So how can you keep enjoying the outdoors with less of these symptoms? Sinus rinses are a good way to keep things washed clean after you have been outdoors. Several products are available but I use Neilmed Sinus Wash with its easy-to-use bottle. And an herbal supplement called Stinging Nettle is another tool to use. It acts as a natural anti-histamine in the body and also has anti-inflammatory properties for the respiratory system. So it can help open sinus passages and also alleviate some asthma symptoms. (Please consult your health care professional before taking any herbal supplements.)

At home, this time of year means that many people enjoy opening their windows as the cooler, drier air has arrived. But dawn and dusk are the most prevalent times for pollens to travel, so closing your windows for a bit around sunset till dark and then in the early morning may help. Keep this in mind with your riding as well, for those who ride early morning or later in the day close to dusk.
Science is reporting the potential for a longer “fall allergy” season this year. Being aware of your own body’s response to what’s blooming now can help you enjoy the crisp autumn days ahead.