Enjoy Fall—Without the Sneezes
The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and pumpkin spice everything is back—fall is finally here! But if you’re sniffling, sneezing, or feeling like you’ve caught a never-ending cold, seasonal allergies might be to blame.
At Culbertson Memorial Hospital, we believe fall should be about hayrides, not hay fever. Here’s how to spot allergy symptoms, tell the difference between allergies and a cold, and find real relief so you can make the most of the season.
What’s Causing Those Fall Allergies?
Spring might steal the spotlight for pollen, but fall has its own allergy troublemakers—ragweed, mold, and dust mites.
- Ragweed pollen travels for miles, so even if you don’t live near a field, it can still find you.
- Mold spores thrive in damp leaves and can trigger sneezing fits worthy of a cartoon.
- Dust mites love when we turn on the heat and spend more time indoors.
Common Allergy Symptoms to Watch For
Fall allergies can feel like an endless cold, but their telltale signs include:
- Sneezing fits that come out of nowhere.
- A runny or stuffy nose that won’t quit.
- Itchy, watery eyes that make you look like you just watched a sad movie.
- Scratchy throat or cough from postnasal drip.
- Feeling tired because your body’s fighting off harmless allergens.
Fall Allergies vs. a Cold: How to Tell the Difference
Sniffles and sneezes can be confusing this time of year. The main difference is what’s causing them.
Colds are caused by viruses and usually last about a week to 10 days. You might have a sore throat, body aches, or even a mild fever—signs your immune system is fighting an infection.
Allergies, on the other hand, often appear suddenly when you’re exposed to triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and clear nasal discharge are classic allergy symptoms—and they tend to stick around as long as the trigger does.
If your symptoms linger for weeks, don’t come with a fever, or seem to follow the seasons, allergies are likely to blame. Either way, Culbertson Memorial Hospital’s care team can help you find answers and feel better fast.
Simple Ways to Treat Fall Allergies
You don’t have to tough it out—there are plenty of ways to manage symptoms and enjoy the season.
Over-the-Counter Options
- Antihistamines reduce sneezing, itching, and runny noses.
- Nasal steroid sprays calm inflammation where it starts.
- Decongestants can offer quick relief—but only use them for a few days in a row.
Home Remedies & Lifestyle Tips
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors.
- Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
- Keep windows closed, even on nice days—pollen loves a breeze!
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water to keep dust mites away.
- Rinse sinuses with saline to clear out allergens.
A few small changes can make a big difference in how you feel.
Smart Ways to Prevent Allergy Flare-Ups
You can’t stop ragweed from growing, but you can limit your exposure. Try these easy prevention tips:
- Check daily pollen counts and plan outdoor activities when levels are lower.
- Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
- Skip yard work on high-pollen days—or wear a mask if you can’t avoid it.
- Keep pets clean—they can carry pollen indoors.
- Change HVAC filters often, using allergy-specific ones if possible.
Think of these steps as your personal “allergy defense system.” The goal is to enjoy the beauty of fall—minus the sniffles.