Fall Allergies in Kids: Ragweed, Mold, and How to Tell Allergies From a Cold in Georgia

Spring gets all the attention when it comes to pollen in Georgia, and anyone who has seen the yellow coating on Atlanta cars in April knows why. But fall brings its own allergy season. If your child has been sneezing, rubbing itchy eyes, or dealing with a constant runny nose since September, fall allergies may be the reason.

Here is what triggers fall allergies in kids in Georgia, how to tell allergies from a cold, and how to help your child feel better.

What Causes Fall Allergies in Georgia?

Ragweed. Ragweed is the biggest fall allergy trigger. A single ragweed plant can release huge amounts of lightweight pollen that travels long distances on the wind. In Georgia, ragweed season typically begins in late summer, peaks in September and October, and continues until the first hard frost, which in north metro Atlanta usually arrives sometime in November.

Other weeds. Pigweed, lamb's quarters, sagebrush, and other weeds also release pollen in the fall.

Mold. Damp leaves, compost piles, and humid weather create perfect conditions for outdoor mold. Jumping in leaf piles, a favorite fall activity, can stir up mold spores.

Indoor allergens. As temperatures drop and windows close, children spend more time indoors with dust mites and pet dander. Turning on the heat for the first time can circulate dust that has collected in vents.

Common Symptoms of Fall Allergies in Kids

• Sneezing, often in bursts

• Clear, watery runny nose

• Stuffy nose

• Itchy nose, eyes, ears, or throat

• Red, watery, itchy eyes

• Dark circles under the eyes ("allergic shiners")

• Frequently rubbing the nose upward ("allergic salute"), sometimes leaving a crease across the nose

• Mouth breathing and snoring

• Postnasal drip, throat clearing, and coughing

• Tiredness, irritability, and trouble concentrating, often from poor sleep

  
  

Is It Allergies or a Cold?

Fall is also the start of cold and flu season, so it can be hard to tell the difference. Some clues:

Allergies are more likely if:

• Symptoms last for weeks

• There is no fever

• Itching is a major symptom, especially itchy eyes

• Mucus stays clear and watery

• Symptoms happen at the same time every year

• Symptoms are worse outdoors or on windy days

  
  

A cold is more likely if:

• Symptoms last 7 to 10 days and then improve

• There is a fever or body aches

• Mucus becomes thick, yellow, or green

• Other family members or classmates are sick

• There is a sore throat at the start

  
  

Some children have both. Allergies can also make children more prone to sinus and ear problems.

Practical Ways to Reduce Exposure

• Check local pollen counts and limit outdoor time on high-pollen days when possible, especially on dry, windy afternoons.

• Keep windows closed at home and in the car; use air conditioning or recirculated air.

• Shower and change clothes after outdoor play or sports, and wash hair before bed so pollen does not end up on the pillow.

• Skip the leaf piles for children with mold allergies, or have them wear a mask while raking.

• Change HVAC filters before turning on the heat, and consider high-efficiency filters.

• Wash bedding weekly in hot water.

• Wipe down pets after they come inside.

• Keep indoor humidity moderate to reduce mold and dust mites.

  
  

Treatments That Help

Many effective allergy treatments are available. Talk with your pediatrician about which options and doses are right for your child's age:

• Saline nasal spray or rinses: Gently wash pollen out of the nose. Safe for most ages.

• Nasal steroid sprays: Often the most effective treatment for nasal allergy symptoms, especially congestion. They work best when used daily and can take several days to reach full effect. Teach your child to aim the spray toward the outside of the nostril, away from the center.

• Non-sedating antihistamines: Help with sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Older antihistamines such as diphenhydramine cause drowsiness and are not recommended for regular allergy treatment.

• Antihistamine eye drops: Helpful for itchy, watery eyes.

• Allergy testing and immunotherapy: For children with persistent or severe allergies, testing can identify triggers, and allergy shots or tablets can reduce sensitivity over time.

  
  

Always check product labels for age recommendations and dose by age and weight as directed.

Allergies and Asthma

Allergies and asthma often go together. Fall allergy season, combined with respiratory viruses, can trigger asthma flare-ups. If your child has asthma, make sure their asthma action plan is up to date and controller medicines are taken as prescribed. Coughing at night, wheezing, or shortness of breath are signs to call your pediatrician.

When to See Your Pediatrician

• Symptoms interfere with sleep, school, sports, or daily activities

• Over-the-counter treatments are not helping

• Your child has frequent sinus or ear infections

• Your child snores or breathes through the mouth most of the time

• Your child has asthma symptoms, such as wheezing or coughing at night

• You are not sure whether symptoms are allergies or an illness

  
  

The Good News: Relief Is Coming

For ragweed-allergic children, the first hard frost of the season usually brings relief. In the meantime, a combination of exposure reduction and the right treatment can make a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does ragweed season end in Georgia?

Ragweed season usually continues until the first hard frost, which in north metro Atlanta often arrives in November.

Can children develop allergies at any age?

Yes. Seasonal allergies often develop after age 2 or 3, once children have been exposed to pollen for a few seasons, but they can begin at any age.

Can allergies cause a fever?

No. Allergies do not cause fever. A fever suggests an infection such as a cold or flu.

Are allergy medicines safe for kids?

Many allergy medicines are safe and effective for children when used at the right dose for their age and weight. Check with your pediatrician about the best choice for your child.

The Bottom Line

Fall allergies in kids are common in Georgia, driven by ragweed, mold, and indoor allergens. Watch for itching, sneezing, and clear runny noses without fever, reduce exposure, and use proven treatments.

Mindful Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine helps children in Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Cumming, Suwanee, Milton, and Roswell breathe easier through every allergy season.

Call 770-746-7113 to schedule an allergy visit.

Ready to schedule a visit? Request an appointment online or call 770-746-7113.