What pollen is in the air in September? The end of the allergy season in Szczecin

September is the slow wind-down of the allergy season. Tree and grass pollen is practically gone, but weeds — mugwort and ragweed — can still cause symptoms, and mould spores remain in the air. For some people this is the last difficult stretch before autumn.

In brief

• Main allergens of September: mugwort (tailing off), ragweed (peak), nettle, goosefoot.
• Moulds: Alternaria and Cladosporium still at high levels, especially with fallen leaves.
• Typical symptoms: hay fever, sneezing, itchy eyes, cough; cross-reactions with some foods are possible.
• How to cope: avoid wasteland, air your home after rain, and get tested if you have symptoms.

What is in the air in September

Mugwort and ragweed

Mugwort finishes pollinating at the beginning of the month, but ragweed takes its place and is often most active in September. Ragweed is a very strong allergen — even a small concentration can cause noticeable symptoms. Both weeds cause cross-reactions, including with some foods (celery, spices).

Goosefoot and nettle

Herbaceous plants are still pollinating, especially on wasteland and along roads. Goosefoot can be a significant allergen.

Moulds

September, with its damp weather and falling leaves, favours the fungi Alternaria and Cladosporium. Their spores can cause symptoms for a long time, especially in people with asthma.

How to ease symptoms in September

• Avoid wasteland, roadsides and piles of leaves on windy days.
• Air your home after rain.
• Shower and change clothes when you get home.
• Consider a pollen filter in your car and an air purifier with a HEPA filter.

If late-summer and early-autumn symptoms keep coming back, it is worth finding out whether ragweed, mugwort or moulds are the cause. At the AGAMED clinic in Szczecin we carry out allergy tests on a wide panel of allergens — painless, with the result right away. Everyone reacts differently, so if your symptoms are severe it is also worth consulting an allergist.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main pollen in the air in September?

Ragweed (peak) and the tail end of mugwort, as well as goosefoot and nettle. Mould spore levels remain high.

How does ragweed differ from mugwort?

Ragweed is a stronger and more aggressive allergen, pollinates slightly later (August–September) and is still spreading in Poland.

When does the pollen season end?

Usually around the turn of September and October, when temperatures drop. After that, household allergens come to the fore again. Book tests: 519 055 858.