COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) – A plant that has recently begun blooming in Ohio may cause a plethora of unpleasant symptoms, including fatigue and mood changes.
Ragweed begins releasing its pollen in early August through November, according to Premier Allergy and Asthma. The plant is one of the most common allergens in the country, causing itchy eyes, a runny nose, congestion, sneezing and itching.
Ragweed may cause another symptom as well – fatigue. A National Institute of Health study concluded ragweed pollen causes “significant fatigue” and “mood changes,” finding that during ragweed season, allergy patients reported higher levels of tiredness and reduced motivation.
In response to an allergen, the body releases chemicals such as histamine, which can cause bodily inflammation. The inflammation can cause a chain reaction of symptoms, including drowsiness and fatigue, according to the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
Dr. Farah Khan, an allergist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, said symptoms such as a stuffy nose may also lead to poor quality of sleep, resulting in tiredness.