New treatment can help ragweed sufferers
In North Texas, a sure sign of autumn is sneezing.
Cooler temperatures are welcome, but they coincide with the height of ragweed season. Each ragweed plant can release more than a billion pollen particles, creating misery for those who are allergic.
But there’s good news, says John Fling, MD, an allergist with UNT Health Science Center.
A newly approved medication called Ragwitek, which requires a prescription, can help. "Tablets are used in place of allergy shots and can be done at home," Dr. Fling said.
Additional strategies:
- Avoidance-limit outdoor activity
- Antihistamines
- Use a topical nasal spray containing either a steroid or a combination antihistamine and steroid
Ragweed season typically lasts through Halloween or so, until the weather chills significantly.
One fact might bring a smile to watery-eyed faces: The month of September was the Metroplex’s driest on record, slowing ragweed growth.
To make an appointment with a UNT Health provider, call 817-735-DOCS.