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.

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