Doctor weighs in: Why falling leaves can trigger allergy headaches

DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado’s unseasonably dry, hot weather is affecting thousands who have allergy problems and asthma.

“Nasal congestion, dry throat, scratchy kind of cough that won’t let off,” said one resident enjoying Washington Park.

Dr. David Beuther of National Jewish Health told FOX31 that a direct correlation exists between dry air and respiratory problems.

“The dryness causes irritation of the mucus membrane sometimes causing it to swell,” Beuther told FOX31.

The swelling can cause severe headaches and complications for those with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Symptoms are commonly triggered by heat, smog, dry air, pollen from weeds and flowers and algae growing on stagnant water.

Leaves on the ground present a special concern.

“As dry as it is they can be moist underneath and mold can form,” said Beuther.

To prevent mold exposure, any debris in your yard should be cleared right away.

“Whether that’s dirt, whether that’s decaying leaves — that stuff all gets tossed up when we have those gusty days, that kind of dry thunderstorm that doesn’t hit the ground that can be an additional irritant,” said Beuther.

Beuther said prolonged dry conditions can cause an increase in COVID cases and other illnesses since dry nasal passages increase susceptibility to infections.

Beuther says the remedy is to stay hydrated and avoid outside exposure when the air quality is ranked as poor. Any use of over-the-counter medications should be monitored as some may contribute to dehydration in some patients.

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