{"id":741,"date":"2018-11-06T20:13:52","date_gmt":"2018-11-06T20:13:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.bernsteinallergyresearch.com\/research-center\/?p=741"},"modified":"2018-11-06T20:22:36","modified_gmt":"2018-11-06T20:22:36","slug":"ragweed-allergy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bernsteinallergyresearch.com\/research-center\/blog\/2018\/11\/06\/ragweed-allergy\/","title":{"rendered":"Ragweed Allergy"},"content":{"rendered":"

Autumn has arrived, and so has the ragweed. These soft-stemmed plants grow throughout North America and present in 17 different species. Sunny, rural areas are the preferred growing places for ragweed, which releases its pollen as a fertilizer for future plants. During the pollination process, which can start as early as July and last until late October, the particles released can travel over long distances, driven by the wind. This is when many people will experience allergy symptoms.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is Ragweed Allergy?<\/b><\/h4>\n

The pollen produced by ragweed plants is a large contributor to seasonal allergies. When people inhale the pollen, their immune systems mistake the substance for an invader, like bacteria or a virus. This sets off a chemical reaction to fight the pollen, even though it is not harmful to the body. The result is a runny nose, sneezing and itchy, red eyes. It is estimated that 25 percent of Americans are allergic to ragweed, and the issue is lifelong once it begins. A combination of shots, medications and changes to lifestyle are helpful for managing ragweed allergy. <\/span><\/p>\n

Ragweed Allergy Symptoms<\/b><\/h4>\n

The severity of ragweed allergy will vary, depending on climate and season. Typically, it will present with the following symptoms: <\/span><\/p>\n