Weed Pollen Season Already Here and I am Feeling It!

It seems autumn weed pollen has already arrived across Kanto, and unfortunately, I’m learning this the hard way. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve developed symptoms that point toward a new allergy; most likely ragweed or mugwort, the two main culprits behind late‑summer hay fever.

It could be grass pollen, but since grass has been active for months and my symptoms began just before Obon, a weed allergy is far more likely. My ENT agrees something is going on, and I’ll need a blood test to know for sure. My congestion started around Mountain Day, right when weed pollen typically begins dispersing. Instead of a runny nose, it’s been deep congestion; bad enough to trigger headaches.

With dispersal already underway, now is a good time to keep windows closed on windy days, rinse your face after being outdoors, and check local pollen updates. The main peak arrives in September, but symptoms can start suddenly in mid to late August and linger until October.