Pigweed is a widespread weed that belongs to the amaranth family that can be found all over the United States. Summer is when pigweed pollen is most prevalent. It can be spotted anywhere like the nurseries, fields, farms, rural areas, and other agricultural regions.

Heavy pollen production from the weed can cause signs of hay fever, asthma, and conjunctivitis. The symptoms are called Pigweed allergies, also known as Lamb’s Quarters.

One of the most prevalent sources of allergy in the UK is pigweed pollen. Although it is a genuinely allergenic plant, ragweed is the most allergenic and widespread. Pigweed allergy symptoms differ from person to person and rely on an individual’s immune system. An individual should know everything about “pigweed” as much as they should know about pigweed allergy.

Pigweed – Know It All

Pigweed is an all-year herb. It grows in recently disturbed soil and agricultural areas all over the world, including places like the United States, Europe, Korea, Brazil, Mozambique, Spain, Hungary, Germany, Mexico, Afghanistan, and Africa.

The maximum height the plant can grow is 10 feet tall. The top of the plant has leaves that are a dull green color. The blooms are tightly clustered.

For observers counting pollen grains under their microscopes, the pollen granules appear to be identical. Depending on where you are in the country, different people use different common names for these plants.

Typically, late summer to autumn is the busiest season for the sparse pollen shed. Mid-August marks the beginning of pigweed seed production, which peaks in September.

You should use precautionary measures to limit exposure and control your symptoms during the pigweed pollen allergy season.

Common Symptoms of Pigweed Allergy

• Sneezing
• Aggravated symptoms of asthma
• Headaches
• Runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Coughing
• Watery eyes
• Congestion
• Allergic rash
• Scratchy throat

Diagnosis

• A pigweed allergy can be detected by a doctor through certain tests.
• The doctor will first inquire about your health background and symptoms.
• A skin penetration test (SPT) or specific IgE blood test will be conducted by your doctor to identify the allergen causing your symptoms. After pricking various areas of the skin, the allergist will insert a few different kinds of allergens during this test.
• If you react negatively to any of the chemicals, you will experience swelling, redness, and itching within 15 to 20 minutes. This will help them understand the chemical that is causing the allergy so that further treatment can be started.

Read also: Check If You Need A Therapist

Food to Avoid During Pigweed Season

Many food items contain proteins that are comparable to those in pigweed pollen. People who are susceptible to pigweed may experience cross-reactivity because of these proteins. Cross-reactivity to pigweed can result in OAS, also known as oral allergy syndrome.

The following items may cause OAS in people who are allergic to pigweed.

Avoid eating them:

• Tomatoes
• Persimmons
• Bananas
• Citrus
• Peanut
• Zucchini
• Melons
• Pineapple
• Hazelnut

Remedies

• Check the weather to find pollen count every day. You can always wear a mask or cover your mouth and nose beefier going on the day when the pollen count is high in the air.
• Vacuum your house regularly to avoid dirt that carries pollen. Also, keep your doors and windows closed during peak season.
• Make sure to wash your garments frequently because pollen can stick to them. Nothing is as good as a shower after coming back home.

There are several medications and nasal sprays on the market that can be used to reduce the symptoms. However, always consult your doctor who knows what best suits the level of your symptoms.