For many Southeast Texas residents, August isn’t just about back-to-school and lingering summer heat — it’s also one of the toughest months for allergies. High pollen counts, lingering humidity, and seasonal mold growth can create miserable conditions for allergy and asthma sufferers. What might feel like “just allergies” for some can quickly escalate into more serious breathing issues that require immediate care.
Why August Is a Peak Allergy Month
Southeast Texas is unique because our climate blends heat, humidity, and extended growing seasons. In late summer, three major triggers converge:
- Ragweed Pollen: Ragweed season begins in August and can last until the first frost. Even small amounts can cause severe symptoms.
- Grasses: Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Bahia continue releasing pollen through late summer.
- Mold Spores: High humidity and frequent rain make mold a year-round problem in our region, with late summer being especially challenging.
Together, these allergens create a perfect storm — leaving many people dealing with more than just mild discomfort.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Seasonal allergies aren’t always limited to sneezing or watery eyes. In Southeast Texas, residents may also experience:
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Shortness of breath during physical activity
- Headaches, fatigue, or brain fog
For children, symptoms can sometimes mimic a cold or respiratory infection, making it harder to know when to seek medical attention.
When Allergies Turn into Emergencies
Most seasonal allergies can be managed at home with over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, or inhalers. But in some cases, symptoms escalate into an emergency:
- Severe asthma attacks that don’t improve with home medication
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing that worsens rapidly
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat (possible anaphylaxis)
- Sudden dizziness or loss of consciousness
These situations should never be ignored. Immediate evaluation is critical to prevent complications.
How Emergency Care Can Help
When allergy or asthma symptoms become overwhelming, waiting for a doctor’s appointment isn’t an option. Our emergency team is equipped to provide:
- Breathing Treatments & Nebulizers — to open airways quickly
- Emergency Medications — including steroids and epinephrine for severe reactions
- On-Site Imaging & Labs — to rule out other causes of chest pain, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- 24/7 Availability — so care is never out of reach, day or night
Protecting Yourself During Peak Allergy Season
While you can’t completely avoid pollen or mold in Southeast Texas, you can take steps to minimize exposure:
- Keep windows closed and use air conditioning indoors
- Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities
- Use a HEPA filter in your bedroom to reduce allergens while you sleep
- Stay indoors on high pollen or high mold days (often worse in the morning and after rain)
Emergency Allergy and Asthma Care in Southeast Texas
Seasonal allergies in Southeast Texas are more than an inconvenience — they can quickly become a serious health risk. When symptoms escalate, you need expert emergency care you can trust. At Beaumont Emergency Hospital, our board-certified physicians are available 24/7 to treat severe asthma flare-ups, allergic reactions, and breathing difficulties. With on-site labs, imaging, and advanced treatments like nebulizers and emergency medications, we provide fast, effective relief in a calm and supportive setting. Families across Jefferson, Orange, Hardin, Chambers, and Liberty Counties rely on Beaumont Emergency Hospital for emergency allergy and asthma care — close to home, when every minute matters.