Ragweed pollen is back, and for many people, it means the onset of allergy symptoms. But what exactly is ragweed?
Ragweed is a flowering weed that belongs to a family of plants with about 17 distinct species found in North America. It has lacy and palmate leaves that resemble a hand with fingers. The height of these plants can range from just a few inches to over 12 feet, with giant ragweed growing as tall as 18 feet.
The presence of ragweed is widespread, as it can be found in various settings such as urban landscapes, roadside areas, farmlands, and riverbanks. In fact, it seems to thrive almost anywhere.
One of the reasons ragweed is notorious for causing allergies is its ability to release an enormous amount of pollen. A single ragweed plant can unleash more than a billion grains of pollen, making it the largest single seasonal allergen in North America.
If you experience sneezing, itchy throat, or a runny nose, it may be time to stock up on over-the-counter allergy medicine. Ragweed and grass pollen levels are expected to remain medium-high until Friday, so it’s essential to proactively manage your symptoms.
However, it’s crucial to ensure that your symptoms are indeed caused by ragweed and grass pollen and not something more serious, especially during flu season. Consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis if needed.
To stay updated on weather conditions and pollen forecasts, consider downloading the WKRN Weather Authority’s News 2 Storm Tracker app for real-time information.
Sources:
– Ragweed pollen: The largest single seasonal allergen in North America
– Ragweed: The main culprit behind fall allergies
