![Heat wave and ambrosia: the allergy that can ruin your summer](https://tipsforwomens.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Heat-wave-and-ambrosia-the-allergy-that-can-ruin-your.jpg)
With the temperatures rising sharply these days, especially in the South-East region of Europe, the allergic risk linked to ragweed will be greater. Know how to protect yourself!
The days to come are likely to be hot throughout Europe, and particularly in the South-East, again faced with a wave of heat waves. It is precisely this region of Europe which is also very exposed to the allergic risk linked to ragweed: the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region, which is the most invaded by the plant, in particular the species with sagebrush leaves.
Three types of ambrosia monitored in Europe
Plants native to North America, ragweed develops quickly and is therefore very allergenic. There are three species monitored in Europe:
- Mugwort-leaved Ambrosia (Ambrosia artemisiifolia);
- Ambrosia trifid (Ambrosia trifida);
- Smooth-eared ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya).
Symptoms amplified by high heat
If you currently have a runny nose or itchy eyes, you are probably allergic to this type of pollen. According to the RNSA, the National Aerobiological Surveillance Network, ragweed pollen concentrations are currently at a moderate level and will increase in the coming days and weeks.
Find below the 5-day forecast of Ambrosia pollen concentrations throughout Europe! Concentrations will continue to increase with warm, sunny weather. Good luck to all allergy sufferers!#pollens #ambrosiahttps://t.co/ZKwESsXdO2 pic.twitter.com/eW1v5OGUog
— National Aerobiological Surveillance Network (@rnsa_pollen) August 14, 2023
Like other pollens, ragweed pollen can cause seasonal allergic rhinitis, with symptoms such as tracheitis, with dry cough, which can go as far as asthma attacks. In addition, the eyes and the skin are not spared, with sometimes allergic conjunctivitis and skin disorders such as hives or eczema.
How to limit your exposure to ragweed?
As with all allergies, there are a few simple rules to follow to avoid too much exposure to ragweed pollen. It’s important to :
- Rinse your hair at night;
- Ventilate your home at least 10 minutes a day before sunrise and after sunset;
- Do not dry clothes outside;
- Keep your car windows closed while driving;
- Avoid sports activities outside;
- Avoid mowing your garden.