The ragweed is a hairy, coarse looking plant that has an unpleasant smell and no redeeming qualities. Its name was derived from the ragged appearance of its leaves. Short ragweed can bloom and spew pollen into the air when only a few inches tall, while the giant ragweed reaches twelve feet in height. Both thrive in soil that has eroded or been otherwise disturbed.

Another characteristic of ragweed is that the more hostile the growing environment, the more pollen a ragweed plant will produce. Stressful conditions, such as a lack of rain, shift the ragweed into a "procreation" mode; the plant will skimp on foliage and direct its resources into the bloom.

Allergy sufferers can’t hide from ragweed, as the pollen can travel for miles on the breeze. For those with the runny nose, congestion, itching eyes, headaches and cough associated with ragweed allergies, colloquially known as hay fever, here are some tips on limiting exposure to ragweed:

• Remain indoors as much as possible during ragweed season; pollen levels are highest in the morning hours
• Take a brief shower after outdoor activities to remove pollen from the skin and hair
• Keep windows up during automobile travel
• Install electrostatic filters in place of the standard fiberglass air-intake filters

HEPA filters, air conditioners or recycle mode keep clean

New prescription antihistamines, decongestants and anti-inflammatory medications can also help alleviate the severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms while having fewer side effects than medications of years past.

There is also desensitization through immunotherapy (allergy shots). This method of treatment is effective in most individuals who suffer from severe allergies, and offers a lasting remedy to this seasonal problem.

Ragweed pollen levels begin to decline in late October, and by late November are at a very low level.

Do allergy shots work?  What is the evidence / risk?  Immunologic changes symptom changes , 2x blind studies effective.