Heavy rain breaks up pollen, making it easier to inhale and triggering allergy symptoms
As the spring season sets in, Southern California is preparing for an intense allergy season due to heavy rainfall. Although rain is welcome after a prolonged drought, it also brings an increase in pollen counts that can trigger severe seasonal allergies. Pollen grains become extremely tiny after rains, easily getting into the atmosphere and spreading quickly.
According to experts, heavy rains break up pollen particles into smaller pieces, making them airborne and easier to inhale. This can trigger allergy symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and congestion. In some cases, it can even lead to asthma attacks.
Experts advise being proactive and using nasal steroid spray a few weeks before allergy season starts to reduce medication use.
Since allergies can develop at any point in one’s life, experts recommend being proactive and taking necessary precautions to avoid severe symptoms. It is essential to track each individual’s pollen triggers by consulting with a doctor or allergist. Using a nasal steroid spray a few weeks before the start of allergy season helps reduce the amount of medication required later on.
When using over-the-counter antihistamines to prevent allergy symptoms, be mindful of sedating antihistamines such as Benadryl. Experts advise against using them since they cause drowsiness.
Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can protect from pollen during outdoor activities. Cloth masks can be worn to keep allergens out.
When outdoors during peak spring allergy season, wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses offers protection from exposure to pollen particles. It is recommended that one put on a cloth mask when doing yard work or spending time outside during the high allergy season. This will help keep allergens out while still allowing easy breathing.
Staying on top of the pollen forecast can help prepare for allergy symptoms
Staying informed about pollen reports allows individuals with allergies to plan their daily activities and prevent severe symptoms. The National Allergy Bureau (NAB) is an excellent resource for checking local and national pollen counts. This aids in avoiding outdoor activities when pollen levels are high.
Taking a shower after being outside can also help remove pollen.
Taking a shower immediately after coming indoors from outside will help remove any accumulated pollen on your skin and hair. This helps prevent the spread of pollen in your living space, which can trigger allergies.
Title: Climate change causing seasonal allergies to come earlier and last longer
March is the beginning of peak allergy season in Michigan.
Due to climate change, the intensity, length, and start time of allergy season is altering. It was once thought that allergy season peaked during late spring or early summer, but now it’s starting way earlier than it used to. In Michigan, for instance, March marks the beginning of peak allergy season.
Warmer seasons are causing longer allergy seasons
Climate scientists believe warmer temperatures lead to an increased amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere that prolongs the growing season for plants. The longer growing season leads to longer exposure to pollen particles triggering allergies.
According to a report by Climate Central, there has been a clear increase in growing season length since 1970. Plants are also blooming earlier due to warmer temperatures caused by climate change. Another impact of climate change is that it creates an extended fall season and rain, which results in increased exposure to mold spores – another common allergen.
Half the battle against allergies is avoidance and medication.
The best treatment method for seasonal allergies is a combination of avoidance strategies and medication use. Common medications include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and nasal rinses that help relieve allergy symptoms. These medications target histamine, which is released when an individual has an allergic reaction.
Differences between COVID-19 and allergies
Allergies and COVID-19 share several symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate between them. Symptoms like fever and sinus infections are caused by viruses and not allergies. On the other hand, itching of eyes, nose, or mouth and congestion are common symptoms of allergies.
The most effective way to differentiate between the two is by taking a COVID-19 at-home test or lab test in a doctor’s office. Treatment for allergies involves antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays, while COVID-19 patients require medical attention from professionals.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
