Did you know that roughly 20% of Michiganders are allergic to ragweed? From now until the first frost, we are in the peak season for this potent allergen.

What is Ragweed?

Ragweed is a surprisingly hardy plant that flowers and releases pollen every year around this time. It grows everywhere - rural areas, vacant lots, along roadsides, and near wooded areas. A single plant can release massive amounts of pollen, and since that pollen can travel for miles, there's truly no escaping it.

Steps to Minimize your Misery

While we wait for the first freeze to kill off the ragweed, there are some steps that can be taken to find some relief:

#1: Clear your Property

Take a look around your home. If you have ragweed growing in or around your property, clearing it away can help. However, since the pollen travels so far, this may only provide minor relief.

#2: Seek Medical Guidance (We can help!)

If you find yourself suffering from fall allergies, the first step is to check with your primary care doctor or allergist to determine the best medication for your needs. 

If you need immediate relief, or help managing your symptoms when your primary care provider isn't available, Alpha Urgent Care is here for you.

Our medical team is available to offer customized treatment based on your symptoms and history. We are committed to helping you feel better fast!

• Visits average just 30 minutes.
• We send prescriptions to your pharmacy of choice.
• We offer extended business hours, 7 days a week.

#3: Keep the Outdoors Out

While we may have some great weather between now and the first frost, keeping your windows closed at all times will help immensely with ragweed allergies. The cool breezes might be tempting, but opening your windows invites pollen directly into your living space.

#4: Optimize Your Home's Air Quality

Now is the perfect time to address your furnace filter.

• Invest in a high-quality filter: Filters with a MERV 13 rating are widely recommended as effective for trapping ragweed and other fine allergens. 
• Change It: Replace your current filter as recommended by the manufacturer - typically once a year (spring or fall). Make sure you know the correct size before purchasing!
• Run the Fan: Once your high-quality filter is installed, run your furnace fan to continuously cycle and filter the air inside your home.

#5: Prevent Tracking Pollen Inside

Pollen attaches to everything. To avoid introducing traces of ragweed into your home (especially your bed!), take these steps:

• Shoes Off: Remove your shoes immediately after entering the home, especially after a long walk or doing yard work.
• Change & Clean: Change your clothes and take a shower, especially before bed. Introducing traces of ragweed pollen into your bed will only make sleep more miserable. 

Taking these steps now will help you manage your symptoms, keep congestion at bay, and allow you to enjoy Michigan's beautiful fall weather. If allergies are interfering with your daily life, don't wait - visit Alpha Urgent Care today.