When do specific allergens peak throughout the year. How can you manage seasonal allergies effectively. What are the main triggers for allergies in each season. Why do allergy symptoms vary from month to month. Which plants cause the most severe allergic reactions in different seasons.

Spring Allergens: The Awakening of Tree Pollen

As winter recedes and spring emerges, so does a surge in allergens that can wreak havoc on allergy sufferers. The primary culprit during this season is tree pollen, which typically begins its assault between February and May in many regions.

Tree pollen season’s duration and intensity can vary significantly from year to year, largely dependent on weather patterns. For instance, a prolonged, harsh winter can delay the onset of tree pollination, sometimes pushing it back to March.

Common Tree Allergens in Spring

• Oak
• Cottonwood
• Birch
• Maple
• Sycamore
• Ash
• Elm
• Hickory
• Walnut
• Beech
• Mulberry

Do flowering plants contribute significantly to spring allergies? Contrary to popular belief, most flowering plants are not major contributors to allergic reactions. The main culprits are wind-pollinated plants, which release their pollen into the air to be carried by the wind. These plants typically have inconspicuous flowers, as they don’t need to attract pollinators.

How does tree pollen allergy treatment work? Allergists can test patients for specific tree pollen allergies and develop tailored treatment plans. This is crucial because there is limited cross-reactivity between different tree pollens, meaning a single treatment may not be effective for all tree pollen allergies.

Summer Allergens: The Rise of Grass Pollen

As spring transitions into summer, the allergy landscape shifts. Late spring and early summer allergies are predominantly caused by grass pollen. In many regions, Memorial Day often marks the peak of grass pollen season.

Common Grass Allergens in Summer

• June/Kentucky Blue grass
• Timothy grass
• Orchard grass
• Rye grass

When does grass pollen season typically occur? Grass pollination usually begins in May, reaches its peak towards the end of the month, and continues through the first few weeks of June. This timing can vary depending on geographic location and local climate conditions.

Are all grasses equally allergenic? While many grass species can trigger allergic reactions, some are more potent allergens than others. Northern pasture grasses, commonly found in the Midwest, are particularly notorious for causing allergic symptoms.

The July Hiatus: A Brief Respite from Allergies

July often provides a welcome break for allergy sufferers, particularly those sensitive to multiple types of pollen. This brief respite is largely due to the hot, dry weather typical of midsummer in many regions.

Why do allergies tend to subside in July? Several factors contribute to this temporary relief:

1. Tree pollen season has ended
2. Grass pollen levels have significantly decreased
3. Weed pollen season has not yet begun
4. Dry conditions often lead to lower mold spore counts

Does this allergy hiatus occur everywhere? It’s important to note that this July reprieve is not universal. Local climate conditions and plant species can affect the timing and duration of this break from allergies. Some regions may experience a shorter or less noticeable lull in allergy symptoms.

Fall Allergens: The Weed Pollen Invasion

As summer wanes and fall approaches, a new wave of allergens emerges to challenge those with seasonal allergies. The back-to-school period often coincides with the onset of weed pollination and a resurgence of allergy symptoms.

Key Fall Allergens

• Ragweed
• English plantain
• Lamb’s quarter
• Pigweed
• Russian thistle
• Yellow dock
• Sorrel
• Firebush
• Cocklebur
• Marsh elder

When does ragweed season typically start? August 15 is often referred to as the unofficial start of ragweed season among allergists. This date marks the beginning of a challenging period for many allergy sufferers.

Is ragweed the only concern in fall? While ragweed is a major allergen, fall also sees a significant increase in mold spore counts. The falling leaves and dying plants create an ideal environment for mold growth, leading to higher concentrations of airborne mold spores.

Fall Activities That Can Exacerbate Allergies

• Gardening in mulch or dirt
• Farming
• Hiking in wooded areas
• Raking leaves

Winter Allergens: The Mold Spore Surprise

Winter in many regions provides a reprieve from pollen allergies, but it’s not entirely free from allergens. The primary seasonal allergen during winter months is mold, which can catch many allergy sufferers off guard.

How can mold be a problem in winter? Mold thrives in damp conditions and temperatures above freezing. During warm spells in winter, particularly after rainfall, mold spore counts can temporarily spike. This can lead to unexpected allergy flare-ups during a season typically associated with allergy relief.

Are indoor allergens more problematic in winter? While not strictly seasonal, indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and indoor molds can become more troublesome in winter. This is often due to increased time spent indoors and reduced ventilation in homes during colder months.

The Importance of Professional Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment

Given the complexity and variability of seasonal allergies, professional guidance is crucial for effective management. A board-certified allergist can provide invaluable assistance in identifying specific allergens and developing targeted treatment strategies.

Benefits of Consulting an Allergist

• Accurate identification of allergen triggers
• Customized treatment plans
• Guidance on avoidance strategies
• Access to advanced treatment options like immunotherapy
• Monitoring of allergy progression and treatment effectiveness

How does allergy testing work? Allergists use various methods to identify specific allergens, including skin prick tests and blood tests. These diagnostics can pinpoint which pollens, molds, or other substances are triggering a patient’s allergic reactions.

Can seasonal allergies be cured? While there’s no cure for allergies, they can be effectively managed. Immunotherapy, either through allergy shots or sublingual tablets, can help reduce sensitivity to specific allergens over time, providing long-term relief for many patients.

Strategies for Managing Seasonal Allergies Year-Round

While each season brings its own set of allergens, there are several strategies that can help manage symptoms throughout the year:

1. Monitor pollen counts: Use local weather reports or smartphone apps to track pollen levels in your area.
2. Time outdoor activities: Try to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times, typically early morning and late afternoon.
3. Keep windows closed: Use air conditioning instead of opening windows during high pollen days.
4. Change clothes and shower after being outdoors: This helps remove pollen from your body and prevents it from spreading in your home.
5. Use air purifiers: HEPA air purifiers can help remove allergens from indoor air.
6. Wear a mask: When working outdoors or on high pollen days, wearing a mask can reduce allergen inhalation.
7. Start medications early: Begin taking allergy medications before symptoms start, as directed by your allergist.
8. Consider immunotherapy: For severe or persistent allergies, discuss the possibility of allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy with your allergist.

How effective are over-the-counter allergy medications? Many people find relief with OTC antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and eye drops. However, prescription medications may be necessary for more severe cases. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication regimen.

Natural Remedies for Allergy Relief

While medical treatments are often necessary, some people find additional relief through natural remedies:

• Nasal irrigation with saline solution
• Local honey consumption (though scientific evidence is limited)
• Butterbur supplements (consult a healthcare provider first)
• Acupuncture
• Steam inhalation with essential oils like eucalyptus

Do natural remedies replace medical treatments? It’s important to note that while some people find these remedies helpful, they should not replace prescribed treatments without consulting a healthcare provider. Natural remedies can complement traditional treatments but may not be suitable or effective for everyone.

The Impact of Climate Change on Seasonal Allergies

Climate change is altering the landscape of seasonal allergies, potentially leading to longer and more intense allergy seasons. Understanding these changes can help individuals and healthcare providers better prepare for and manage allergy symptoms.

Key Effects of Climate Change on Allergies

• Extended growing seasons
• Increased pollen production
• Changes in plant distribution
• Higher concentrations of carbon dioxide, which can increase pollen production
• More frequent extreme weather events, which can affect allergen distribution

How is climate change affecting specific allergens? For example, studies have shown that ragweed pollen season has been extending in recent years, starting earlier and lasting longer. This trend is particularly noticeable in northern latitudes where warming is more pronounced.

What can be done to address climate-related allergy changes? On an individual level, staying informed about local pollen forecasts and working closely with an allergist to adjust treatment plans is crucial. On a broader scale, supporting environmental policies that address climate change can help mitigate long-term impacts on allergy seasons.

Adapting Allergy Management to Climate Change

1. Stay informed about local pollen trends
2. Be prepared for earlier start and later end to allergy seasons
3. Work with an allergist to develop flexible treatment plans
4. Consider long-term treatments like immunotherapy
5. Advocate for climate-aware urban planning and plant selection in public spaces

Can climate-resilient landscaping help reduce allergens? Choosing low-allergy or female plants for landscaping can help reduce local pollen levels. Some cities are adopting “allergy-friendly” urban planning strategies to minimize the impact of highly allergenic plants in public spaces.

The Role of Genetics in Seasonal Allergies

While environmental factors play a significant role in seasonal allergies, genetic predisposition is also a crucial component. Understanding the genetic basis of allergies can provide insights into why some individuals are more susceptible and help in developing targeted treatments.

Key Points About Genetics and Allergies

• Allergies tend to run in families
• Multiple genes are involved in allergy susceptibility
• Genetic factors can influence the type and severity of allergic reactions
• Epigenetic changes can affect allergy development over time

How much do genes contribute to allergy risk? While estimates vary, studies suggest that genetics may account for 50-80% of allergy risk. However, environmental factors play a crucial role in whether these genetic predispositions manifest as allergies.

Can genetic testing predict allergy risk? Current genetic tests cannot definitively predict whether an individual will develop allergies. However, ongoing research in this area may lead to more predictive tests in the future, potentially allowing for earlier interventions.

Implications of Genetic Research for Allergy Treatment

1. Personalized medicine approaches
2. Development of targeted biological therapies
3. Improved understanding of allergy prevention strategies
4. Potential for gene therapy in severe cases

How might understanding the genetics of allergies change treatment approaches? As we gain a better understanding of the genetic basis of allergies, treatments may become more personalized. For example, certain genetic markers might indicate which patients are more likely to respond to specific treatments, allowing for more targeted and effective interventions.

The Psychological Impact of Seasonal Allergies

While the physical symptoms of seasonal allergies are well-documented, the psychological impact is often overlooked. Chronic allergy symptoms can significantly affect mental health and quality of life, making comprehensive management crucial.

Common Psychological Effects of Seasonal Allergies

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Sleep disturbances leading to fatigue and irritability
• Reduced cognitive function and productivity
• Social isolation due to symptom avoidance
• Decreased overall quality of life

How do allergies affect mental health? Chronic allergy symptoms can lead to persistent discomfort, sleep disruption, and limitations on daily activities. These factors can contribute to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression in some individuals.

Can treating allergies improve mental health? Effective management of allergy symptoms often leads to improvements in mood, sleep quality, and overall well-being. This highlights the importance of a holistic approach to allergy treatment that considers both physical and psychological effects.

Strategies for Coping with the Psychological Impact of Allergies

1. Seek comprehensive allergy treatment
2. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
3. Maintain social connections, even during high allergy seasons
4. Consider counseling or support groups
5. Prioritize sleep hygiene
6. Stay physically active, adapting exercise routines as needed

How can employers and schools support individuals with severe allergies? Creating allergy-aware environments, providing flexible work or study arrangements during peak allergy seasons, and ensuring access to clean air can significantly improve the experience of allergy sufferers in work and educational settings.

By understanding the complex interplay between seasonal allergens, individual susceptibility, and environmental factors, those affected by allergies can better navigate the challenges of each season. Working closely with healthcare providers and staying informed about local allergen trends are key steps in managing seasonal allergies effectively. As research continues to advance our understanding of allergies, new treatment options and management strategies offer hope for improved quality of life for allergy sufferers year-round.

Seasonal Allergies: A Month-by-Month Guide

ENT & Allergy Specialists of Northwest Ohio

Seasonal allergies often get lumped into one category. However, each season has its own unique allergens. Follow the guide below to see which months you can expect to see a flare up of which allergens.

Spring: February – May

For spring allergy sufferers, the joys of warmer weather, birds chirping and flowers blooming come at a price. Bothersome nose and eye symptoms, breathing difficulties and skin allergies can set in as trees begin to pollinate. Tree pollen season occurs between February and May in Ohio. Season length and timing varies each year depending on weather. In 2019 for example, due to a long, harsh winter, trees did not begin pollinating until March. Because pollen is microscopic, we cannot see it in the air and often do not know when the season has started until symptoms begin.

A common myth regarding spring allergies is that because symptoms often start in correlation with blooming flowers, the flower pollens contribute to the problem. Our allergies are due to plants that spread pollen by wind (anemophilous plants), which is how the pollen enters our eyes, noses, mouths or skin. These plants are not showy or eye-catching because they do not need to be. The plants we typically notice are usually flowering plants that are pretty for the purpose of catching the attention of pollinators like bees and other insects. These plant pollens are spread from plant to plant by the insects that visit them (entomophilous plants). For this reason, most of our pollen exposure is due to pollen in the air outdoors, and thus our allergies are to wind-pollinated plants.

Many trees are primarily pollinated by wind, and tree pollens are the main springtime allergen. Mold spores also contribute to spring allergies but are most bothersome in the fall. Common trees in the northwest Ohio region that contribute to allergy symptoms include oak, cottonwood, birch, maple, sycamore, ash, elm, hickory, walnut, beech and mulberry. There is limited cross-reactivity between tree pollens. This means that while some trees are related and pollens are somewhat similar, many tree pollens have unique features that prevent the ability to create a single treatment for tree pollen allergy. Allergists are specially trained physicians who can test patients to multiple different tree pollens and treat each patient uniquely for their specific tree pollen allergies.

Summer: May – June

Late spring and early summer allergies mainly involve grass pollen. In the allergy world, we often think of Memorial Day as a reminder of peak grass pollen season. Northern pasture grasses like June/Kentucky Blue, Timothy, Orchard and Rye are commonly grown in the Midwest. They begin pollinating in May, peak toward the end of the month and carry through the first few weeks of June.

July Hiatus

Even allergies take a vacation. Hot, dry July weather tends to give a short reprieve for pan-pollen allergic patients (those allergic to tree, grass and weed pollens). Trees and grasses are no longer pollinating. Without rain, mold spore counts are often low and fall plants have not yet begun the pollination process.

Fall: August – November

Back-to-school time often marks the onset of weed pollination and resurgence of allergy symptoms. The term “hay fever” is often used to describe these symptoms and is derived from the “illness” that farmers used to obtain when harvesting hay in the fall. With the discovery of pollen allergies, it was recognized that fall symptoms were due to ragweed pollen rather than due to hay exposure. August 15 is endearingly referred to amongst allergists as the start of ragweed season. Other common weed plants that produce pollen allergens include English plantain, lamb’s quarter, pigweed, Russian thistle, yellow dock, sorrel, firebush, cocklebur and marsh elder.

Mold spore counts tend to rise dramatically in the fall with falling leaves and dying plants. Molds thrive in the decomposing plant matter and their spores float into the air. Gardening in mulch or dirt, farming or hiking in the woods can also increase exposures to mold spores this time of year.

Winter: December – January

While this article primarily focuses on pollen season, the only “seasonal” allergen we encounter during winter in the Midwest is mold. Mold grows best above freezing temperatures and when it is damp, such as after rainfall. During warm periods of winter, mold spore counts can temporarily spike, which can be confusing for mold allergic patients that may not be expecting an allergy flare during winter months.

For seasonal allergy sufferers, it is important to meet with a board-certified allergist to identify which allergens are most bothersome and to allow for more focused attention on avoidance measures and treatment options.

Ragweed Pollen Allergy | AAFA.org

In the late summer, about 15% of Americans have symptoms from an allergy to ragweed pollen.¹ The symptoms can make life miserable for those with allergies. This allergy can also cause asthma symptoms for people with allergic asthma.

Pollen Seasons in the U.S.

February – May: Trees (some start as early as January)

April – June: Grasses

August − November: Weeds

You may feel uncomfortable when ragweed plants release pollen into the air. Your symptoms may continue until the first frost kills the plant. Depending on your location, ragweed season may last six to 10 weeks. In most areas in the U.S., it peaks in mid-September.

What Is Ragweed?

Ragweed is a weed that grows throughout the United States, especially in the Eastern and Midwestern states. Each plant lives only one season. But that one plant can produce up to 1 billion pollen grains.

When mid-August nights grow longer, ragweed flowers mature and release pollen. Warm weather, humidity and breezes after sunrise help release the pollen. The pollen then travels through the air to another plant to fertilize the seed so a new plant can grow next year.

Ragweed usually grows in rural areas. Near the plants, the pollen counts are highest right after dawn. Rain and morning temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit slow down the release of pollen.

Ragweed pollen can travel far. It has been found in the air 400 miles out to sea and two miles up in the atmosphere. But most falls close to its source.

Turf grasses and other perennial plants easily overgrow ragweed. But where streams of water, farming or chemicals upset the soil – like salting roads in the winter – ragweed will grow. It is often found along roadsides, riverbanks, in vacant lots and fields. Dormant seeds that live in the soil for decades may grow when the conditions are right.

What Is a Ragweed Pollen Allergy?

The job of your immune system is to find foreign substances, like viruses and bacteria, and get rid of them. This response normally protects us from harmful diseases. People with allergies have immune systems that react when they come in contact with allergens. When you are allergic to ragweed pollen and inhale it from the air, rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms show up.

Seventeen types of ragweed grow in North America. Ragweed also belongs to a larger family of plants that can spread pollen by wind. These plants can also cause symptoms.

Members of this plant family include:

• Sage
• Burweed marsh elder
• Rabbit brush
• Mugwort
• Groundsel bush
• Eupatorium

Some family members spread their pollen by insects instead of by wind. They cause fewer allergic reactions. But sniffing these plants can cause symptoms.

Who Gets a Ragweed Allergy?

Seventy-five percent of people who are allergic to pollen are also allergic to ragweed. If you have allergies to one type of pollen, you tend to develop allergies to other types of pollen as well.

If you have a ragweed allergy, you may also get symptoms when you eat these foods:

• Banana
• Cantaloupe
• Cucumber
• Honeydew
• Watermelon
• White potato
• Zucchini
• Sunflower seeds

This is called oral allergy syndrome (OAS). OAS occurs because your immune system confuses ragweed pollen with certain foods. Common OAS symptoms include itchy mouth, throat, tongue or face.

What Are the Symptoms?

Rhinitis symptoms often include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy eyes, nose and throat
• Itchy or puffy eyes
• Mucus in the throat (postnasal drip)

If you have severe allergies, ragweed might trigger asthma symptoms, chronic sinusitis, headaches and congestion that can interfere with sleep.

How Is It Diagnosed?

If you think you are allergic to ragweed pollen, see a board-certified allergist. They will ask you about your medical history, do a physical exam and allergy testing. They may do a skin prick test to confirm your allergy.

For prick/scratch testing, the doctor or nurse places a small drop containing ragweed pollen on your skin. They will then lightly prick or scratch your skin with a needle through the drop. If you are sensitive to ragweed, you will develop redness, swelling and itching at the test site within 15 minutes. Sometimes your doctor may take a blood test to see if you have the antibody to ragweed.

What Can I Do About It?

There is no cure for a ragweed pollen allergy. But there are ways to treat and manage it.

Track the pollen count for your area. The news media often reports the count for your area, especially when pollen is high. You also can get your area’s pollen counts from the National Allergy Bureau.

Stay indoors in central air conditioning when the pollen count is high. Get a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air filter for your air conditioner. If you do spend time outside, try to go out in the afternoons and evenings. Ragweed pollen peaks in mornings.

Prevent pollen from being tracked into your home. If you spend a lot of time outside during peak pollen time:

• Take your shoes off outside
• Don’t wear your “outside” clothes to bed
• Cover your hair when outside or wash it at night

You might even consider moving to get away from ragweed. This will often help you feel better for a short time. But you can develop allergies to plants in your new location in a few years. And ragweed is found in every state except Alaska. A well-thought out treatment plan is a better way to live with your allergies.

Take anti-inflammatory or antihistamine medicines, and start treatment in the summer. Many over-the-counter medicines work well to control pollen allergy symptoms. They can also help eye, nose and asthma symptoms. Many newer antihistamines don’t cause as much drowsiness as older ones.

Anti-inflammatory and antihistamine nose sprays also help and have few side effects. You can also find eye drops for eye symptoms. Leukotriene inhibitors can help by blocking chemicals your body releases when you have an allergic reaction.

For long-term relief, see an allergist about immunotherapy. This type of treatment can reduce the allergic response to specific allergens. There are two types: allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).

Allergy shots involve giving injections of allergens in an increasing dose over time. They relieve symptoms for most people and can last for years to decades.

With SLIT, you take a small dose of an allergen under your tongue. You also gradually become more sensitive.

If you have allergic asthma, your Asthma Action Plan may include some of these allergy treatments to help you keep your asthma under control.

With the right treatment plan, you should see major improvements in your symptoms.

Closed

What Is Ragweed?

Ragweed is a weed that grows throughout the United States, especially in the Eastern and Midwestern states. Each plant lives only one season. But that one plant can produce up to 1 billion pollen grains.

When mid-August nights grow longer, ragweed flowers mature and release pollen. Warm weather, humidity and breezes after sunrise help release the pollen. The pollen then travels through the air to another plant to fertilize the seed so a new plant can grow next year.

Ragweed usually grows in rural areas. Near the plants, the pollen counts are highest right after dawn. Rain and morning temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit slow down the release of pollen.

Ragweed pollen can travel far. It has been found in the air 400 miles out to sea and two miles up in the atmosphere. But most falls close to its source.

Turf grasses and other perennial plants easily overgrow ragweed. But where streams of water, farming or chemicals upset the soil – like salting roads in the winter – ragweed will grow. It is often found along roadsides, riverbanks, in vacant lots and fields. Dormant seeds that live in the soil for decades may grow when the conditions are right.

What Is a Ragweed Pollen Allergy?

The job of your immune system is to find foreign substances, like viruses and bacteria, and get rid of them. This response normally protects us from harmful diseases. People with allergies have immune systems that react when they come in contact with allergens. When you are allergic to ragweed pollen and inhale it from the air, rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms show up.

Seventeen types of ragweed grow in North America. Ragweed also belongs to a larger family of plants that can spread pollen by wind. These plants can also cause symptoms.

Members of this plant family include:

• Sage
• Burweed marsh elder
• Rabbit brush
• Mugwort
• Groundsel bush
• Eupatorium

Some family members spread their pollen by insects instead of by wind. They cause fewer allergic reactions. But sniffing these plants can cause symptoms.

Who Gets a Ragweed Allergy?

Seventy-five percent of people who are allergic to pollen are also allergic to ragweed. If you have allergies to one type of pollen, you tend to develop allergies to other types of pollen as well.

If you have a ragweed allergy, you may also get symptoms when you eat these foods:

• Banana
• Cantaloupe
• Cucumber
• Honeydew
• Watermelon
• White potato
• Zucchini
• Sunflower seeds

This is called oral allergy syndrome (OAS). OAS occurs because your immune system confuses ragweed pollen with certain foods. Common OAS symptoms include itchy mouth, throat, tongue or face.

What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergy? (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis)

Rhinitis symptoms often include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy eyes, nose and throat
• Itchy or puffy eyes
• Mucus in the throat (postnasal drip)

If you have severe allergies, ragweed might trigger asthma symptoms, chronic sinusitis, headaches and congestion that can interfere with sleep.

How Is Ragweed Allergy Diagnosed?

If you think you are allergic to ragweed pollen, see a board-certified allergist. They will ask you about your medical history, do a physical exam and allergy testing. They may do a skin prick test to confirm your allergy.

For prick/scratch testing, the doctor or nurse places a small drop containing ragweed pollen on your skin. They will then lightly prick or scratch your skin with a needle through the drop. If you are sensitive to ragweed, you will develop redness, swelling and itching at the test site within 15 minutes. Sometimes your doctor may take a blood test to see if you have the antibody to ragweed.

What Is the Treatment for Ragweed Allergy?

There is no cure for a ragweed pollen allergy. But there are ways to treat and manage it.

Track the pollen count for your area. The news media often reports the count for your area, especially when pollen is high. You also can get your area’s pollen counts from the National Allergy Bureau.

Stay indoors in central air conditioning when the pollen count is high. Get a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® air filter for your air conditioner. If you do spend time outside, try to go out in the afternoons and evenings. Ragweed pollen peaks in mornings.

Prevent pollen from being tracked into your home. If you spend a lot of time outside during peak pollen time:

• Take your shoes off outside
• Don’t wear your “outside” clothes to bed
• Cover your hair when outside or wash it at night

Take anti-inflammatory or antihistamine medicines, and start treatment in the summer.  Many over-the-counter medicines work well to control pollen allergy symptoms. They can also help eye, nose and asthma symptoms. Many newer antihistamines don’t cause as much drowsiness as older ones.

Anti-inflammatory and antihistamine nose sprays also help and have few side effects. You can also find eye drops for eye symptoms. Leukotriene inhibitors can help by blocking chemicals your body releases when you have an allergic reaction.

For long-term relief, see an allergist about immunotherapy. This type of treatment can reduce the allergic response to specific allergens. There are two types: allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT).

Allergy shots involve giving injections of allergens in an increasing dose over time. They relieve symptoms for most people and can last for years to decades.

With SLIT, you take a small dose of an allergen under your tongue. You also gradually become more sensitive.

If you have allergic asthma, your Asthma Action Plan may include some of these allergy treatments to help you keep your asthma under control.

With the right treatment plan, you should see major improvements in your symptoms.

Should I Move to Get Relief From My Ragweed Pollen Allergy?

You might even consider moving to get away from ragweed. This will often help you feel better for a short time. But you can develop allergies to plants in your new location in a few years. And ragweed is found in every state except Alaska. A well-thought out treatment plan is a better way to live with your allergies.

References

1. Salo, P.M., S.J. Arbes, Jr., R. Jaramillo, A. Calatroni, C.H. Weir, M.L. Sever, J.A. Hoppin, K.M. Rose, A.H. Liu, P.J. Gergen, H.E. Mitchell, and D.C. Zeldin. 2014. Prevalence of allergic sensitization in the United States: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2006. J. Allergy Clin. Immun. 134(2):350–359.

when the allergy season starts in the Tula region, and how to deal with it – TSN 24

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A month is left before the beginning of spring flowering – on average, shrubs and trees begin to bloom already in mid-March during the established thaw. Tula immunologist-allergist Ekaterina Chernyshova told how to distinguish an allergy from a cold and a virus, and how to recover.

When the flowering allergy season opens in the Tula region

According to the allergist, in March, early shrubs, such as hazel, begin to bloom, and in April, first alder and then birch actively bloom. It is these plants that are most often the culprits of watery eyes and sneezing in Central Russia.

You can navigate according to a special calendar of flowering and spore formation – on the Internet there is an opportunity to see when and what blooms. There are also various sites, for example, Allergofon – you can also connect and monitor the situation in real time. There are no statistics for the Tula region, but there is data for Moscow – the concentration of pollen is plus or minus the same,

Flower allergy symptoms

The characteristic signs of an allergy are indeed very similar to the first signs of a cold, however, you can distinguish the reaction to flowering by some characteristic features.

“Patients notice unreasonable nasal congestion, frequent sneezing, itching of the nose, eyes, ears, redness of the eyes, watery eyes, irritation, sometimes even itching in the throat area – inside and out. Gradually, the signs of rhinitis begin to intensify – the nose does not just lay down, but a profuse runny nose appears, which cannot be stopped by anything. In some patients, pollen allergy can be aggravated by coughing, shortness of breath, and even bronchial asthma, when a person can neither breathe in nor exhale. Some patients may suffer from exacerbations of atopic and allergic dermatitis. All these manifestations are usually persistent – they do not go away in a few days, but last for several weeks and even months during the flowering period. Antiviral drugs do not help patients with these symptoms. It can also be noted that with allergies there is no fever and signs of intoxication – weakness, headache, increased fatigue. Most Russians like to self-medicate and buy various pills, try to get rid of the symptoms – if a person has taken antihistamines and immediately feels better, this is a direct indication to consult an allergist, ”said the doctor.

How to prevent flowering allergies

The specialist notes that once an allergy to flowering has appeared, it will not go away on its own, but will haunt a person every spring. However, modern medicine allows, albeit not always to get rid of allergies completely, but to achieve a long-term remission.

“The main method of treatment is allergen specific therapy. This is allergen treatment, which is aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease – we teach the immune system how to properly respond to allergens. Such therapy is carried out exclusively by allergists. It helps to achieve either a long-term remission for 7-10 years, or a complete cure. If patients do not go to allergists, or there are difficulties for this therapy, then two weeks before flowering (early March) it is recommended for them to start taking anti-allergic drugs – eye and nose remedies, pills, ”says Ekaterina Chernyshova.

Where to move during an allergy period

There is also a cardinal method of treating spring allergies – for a while to move to another region of Russia or another country where the activity of allergenic pollen is much lower.

“Among my patients there are those who go to the Krasnodar Territory for several weeks, closer to the sea, or even to Turkey, Egypt and even China. There is not such an active flowering of these shrubs and trees. As for most other European countries, it makes no sense to go there – pollen activity is the same there, ”concluded the specialist.

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Pollen column: the peak of the exacerbation of allergies will be in early April | Articles

The season of allergies caused by flowering plants has begun in Central Russia. There are already dangerous drifts of early-flowering pollen: alder, hazel, experts warn. Warm weather in the European part of Russia also contributes: the March norm was exceeded by five to seven degrees. Allergy sufferers have already begun to feel unwell, and the next peak is expected in early April. Doctors advise not to visit forest areas and parks during the flowering period, do not open the windows in the apartment and car, use air purifiers, and do not even dry clothes on the balcony.

Pollen stray

The first noticeable exacerbation of allergy sufferers this season has been observed in Central Russia in the last three or four days, told Izvestia in the Pollen Club service. The symptoms have been manifesting over the past month, now they have become widespread, explained service expert Andrey Mirgorodsky. Flowering of plants and drifts of pollen affected.

— The European part and the southwest of the country are now in a state of active distribution of pollen from early flowering plants: hazel and alder. In addition, pollen can travel thousands of kilometers, and these drifts, among other things, came to us at a certain wind rose , – the expert noted.

Usually, he says, wind-blown pollen does not have such a strong effect compared to local blooms, but sensitive people still feel unwell.

Photo: TASS/dpa/picture-alliance/Stefan Jaitner

— As for local dusting, a period has come when both alder and hazel are about to begin to actively behave. By the end of March, we expect the activation of pollen of local origin , – Andrey Mirgorodsky added.

Allergy sufferers should expect the next peak of exacerbation at the turn of March and April, he predicts.

– Already now we see in our application that people across the country are experiencing very serious problems. The index of well-being has not yet reached the maximum value of ten points, but in recent days it has risen to the level of 6-8 points. The season is expected to be difficult, – the expert predicts.

According to him, such a conclusion can be drawn by looking at the risk map of the service: already in March, users noted a rather high index of poor health – about 8.

— The season will not be easy — by default, the vaccine has not been invented, allergy sufferers will suffer, — he added.

Flowering according to the standard

So far, biologists predict the standard flowering of plants. The season began on schedule, explained to Izvestia agronomist, nurseryman Vladimir Vikulov. Usually, plants react with rapid flowering to experienced stresses, the expert recalled. However, last summer, according to him, passed for the plants mostly calmly: there was no severe drought or other stresses. Winter in central Russia also passed without serious consequences for the flora.

This year, the start of flowering was slightly delayed by the cold beginning of March in the middle lane, but this only means that people with pollen allergy will feel inconvenience one or two weeks later than usual , said Ekaterina, head of the medical examination department of the INVITRO group of companies Terentiev.

Photo: TASS/dpa/picture-alliance/Angelika Warmuth

Already by the second half of March in the European part of Russia, abnormally warm weather has set in, which is 5–7 °C higher than the norm and is approaching the indicators of early-mid-April. In Moscow, on March 23, +12.1 ° C was recorded, which is only 2.5 degrees less than the temperature record in the entire history of meteorological observations, meteorologists told Izvestia.

– Approximately from mid-March to the end of April, dusting of early flowering trees is observed – alder, hazel, hornbeam, maple, ash, willow, willow. From mid-April to the end of May – dusting of late-flowering trees: birch, oak, elm, pine, spruce, poplar. From mid-May to the end of June, some herbs bloom, the pollen of which also causes allergy symptoms – coltsfoot, dandelion, – reminded Ekaterina Terentyeva.

Forecasters predict a cool spring with heavy rainfall, it is likely that allergy sufferers will endure it more easily, was encouraged by the allergist of the Budu online health management service Marina Suvorova.

In spring, the concentration of not only pollen, but also other potential allergens increases in the air: mold spores, plant pollen, dust, pet hair, which actively molt at this time of the year , the expert drew attention.

Photo: TASS/Alexandra Krasnova

— Susceptible people, even before the flowering season, with the start of snowmelt, begin to be allergic to mold fungi. This is due to the fact that allergens are found in thawed soil, last year’s leaves and grass. The time of occurrence of this type of allergy usually begins in March and can last until the end of June, – Ekaterina Terentyeva warned.

Another allergen associated with snowmelt is de-icing agents. The reaction to chemicals can continue throughout the snowmelt period, the doctor reminded.

Spring exacerbation of allergies not associated with going out, according to her, can also be caused by activation of the reproduction of micromites that feed on particles of the epidermis of people and animals and other components that form house dust . Especially a lot of micromites in mattresses, bed linen, pillows, carpets, furniture upholstery.

Early Prevention

Doctors advise you to take care of the prevention of spring allergies in advance. For example, a course of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), as a rule, begins three to four months before dusting, said Anna Markova, an allergist and immunologist at the Nearmedic clinic on Simonovsky Val.

— The essence of the method is to administer to the patient a special drug that contains microdoses of the culprit allergen. According to a regulated scheme, it is introduced into the body with a gradual increase in doses s. As a result, insensitivity is developed to the guilty allergen, she explained.

Another way to deal with allergies is to install special screens on the windows with very small cells that do not allow pollen to pass through.

— Both of my sons have quite strong allergies, so as soon as I found out about the existence of special nets, I found a company that installs them. By the end of winter, we installed them so that by the pollen season we would already be protected from its ingress, ”Elena, a Muscovite, told Izvestia.

Photo: na-dache.pro

The highest concentration of pollen in the air is observed early in the morning and on dry hot days, so during this period it is better not to go outside and not open the windows, Ekaterina Terentyeva advises.