Allergies on the rise due to high pollen content



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The spring season also marks the beginning of the pollen season. High counts of pollen have been recorded, resulting in allergy symptoms of sneezing, itchy eyes and runny nose. ( Wikimedia Commons )

The arrival of spring also means something else: it's the beginning of the pollen season that causes an irritating allergy to many.

The pollen season is the time of year when people with allergies begin to exhibit the symptoms of pollen allergy – sniffles, constant sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itchy throat. It can also cause headaches, runny nose, fatigue, irritability and hives.

More than 67 million Americans suffer from symptoms and negative effects of pollen allergies.

Pollen and seasonal allergies

Time and season usually determine the intensity and duration of the pollen allergy season.

The combination of the breeze, sunny afternoons and fewer cool nights is what constitutes a "pollen bomb" according to Dr. Kathleen Sheerin of the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic.

Dry, windy weather distributes pollen faster and increases allergy symptoms.

The whole of southwestern Louisiana has recorded a high number of pollen.

In Seattle, Northwestern Asthma and Allergies (NAAC) measured the pollen count of 699 pollen particles per square meter.

Early forecasts show that Pennsylvania and New Jersey will reach the peak allergy season from early to mid-May.

According to the National Allergy Map, 20% of the country is considered to be in average status.

Pollination process

The pollen comes from distinct plant categories: trees, grbades and weeds. As these plants pollinate and fertilize other plants, very fine dusts are released into the air.

High pollen counts were observed as the tree pollination season began and was expected to last until spring. Among the pollen counted were cedar, birch, alder and elm. Maple trees also cause allergies at this time of the year. Oak, mulberry and ash are also among the main allergens.

"All of these trees have their own lives and their own schedule for pollination," said Jolanta Olech, Laboratory Manager at NAAC.

The grbad pollen season usually starts in April or May, while the weed pollen season starts in July and can last until September.

How to avoid pollen allergies

Allergies and allergic reactions can occur at any time.

To avoid allergies, stay indoors in the morning, take care of indoor air cleanliness, stock up on an allergy kit and regularly dust off surfaces and furniture.

Wearing a mask can also help, as well as frequent hand washing and the use of saline spray for the nose.

If staying indoors is not an option, people prone to pollen allergy can take over-the-counter medications, such as eye drops, to relieve itching, nasal sprays and antihistamines .

In the most serious cases, consider consulting a medical expert or allergist.

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