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Peak Allergy Season 2021: Timing, Symptoms, and Management Strategies

by alexxlab

When does allergy season 2021 start. How is climate change affecting allergy seasons. What are the main types of seasonal allergens. How can you prepare for and manage allergy symptoms effectively. What treatment options are available for severe allergies.

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The Shifting Landscape of Allergy Season

Allergy season has become increasingly unpredictable and intense in recent years. Climate change is playing a significant role in altering the traditional patterns of allergen production and distribution. As temperatures rise globally, plants are producing more pollen over longer periods, leading to extended and more severe allergy seasons.

Is there a specific start date for allergy season? The reality is that allergy season doesn’t have a fixed start date. It varies depending on geographical location, local climate conditions, and the types of allergens present in a particular area. However, experts have observed a general trend of earlier onset and longer duration of allergy seasons compared to previous decades.

Key Allergens and Their Peak Seasons

Understanding the different types of allergens and their peak seasons can help individuals better prepare for and manage their allergy symptoms. Here’s a breakdown of the main seasonal allergens:

  • Tree pollen: Typically peaks in spring (late March to April)
  • Grass pollen: Prevalent in late spring (around May)
  • Weed pollen: Most common in summer (July to August)
  • Ragweed pollen: Dominates from late summer to fall (late August until first frost)

Are some allergens present year-round? Indeed, certain allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander can cause symptoms throughout the year, making it crucial for allergy sufferers to remain vigilant regardless of the season.

Climate Change and Its Impact on Allergies

The relationship between climate change and allergies is becoming increasingly apparent. Rising global temperatures are having a profound effect on plant behavior and pollen production. Here are some key impacts:

  1. Earlier onset of allergy seasons
  2. Longer duration of pollen production
  3. Increased quantity of pollen produced
  4. Changes in the geographic distribution of allergenic plants

How much earlier is allergy season arriving? Studies indicate that allergy season is now starting approximately 20 days earlier than it did in 1990. Moreover, pollen counts have increased by at least 20% during this period, intensifying the challenges faced by allergy sufferers.

Recognizing Allergy Symptoms and Their Impact

Allergy symptoms can significantly affect quality of life and daily functioning. Common symptoms include:

  • Sneezing and runny nose
  • Watery, itchy eyes
  • Congestion and sinus pressure
  • Itchy throat and ears
  • Fatigue and headaches

Do allergies pose health risks beyond discomfort? For individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma, exposure to allergens can trigger severe reactions and pose serious health risks. Additionally, research has shown that pollen exposure can weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off respiratory illnesses, making allergy sufferers more vulnerable to other health issues.

Strategies for Managing Allergy Symptoms

Effective management of allergy symptoms often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Monitor pollen forecasts and plan outdoor activities accordingly
  2. Keep windows closed during high pollen days
  3. Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
  4. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors
  5. Regularly clean and vacuum living spaces
  6. Consider wearing a mask when outdoors during peak allergy season

When should you start taking allergy medications? Allergists recommend beginning medication regimens 2-3 weeks before the expected start of allergy season in your area. This proactive approach can help prevent or reduce the severity of symptoms once allergens become prevalent.

Medication Options for Allergy Relief

There are various over-the-counter and prescription medications available to manage allergy symptoms. Some common options include:

  • Antihistamines: Reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose
  • Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure
  • Nasal corticosteroid sprays: Decrease inflammation in the nasal passages
  • Eye drops: Alleviate itchy, watery eyes
  • Leukotriene modifiers: Block chemicals that cause allergy symptoms

Which medications are most effective for severe allergies? For individuals with severe allergies, a combination of nasal corticosteroid sprays and non-sedating antihistamines often provides the most comprehensive relief. However, it’s essential to consult with an allergist or healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

Advanced Treatment Options for Severe Allergies

When over-the-counter medications prove insufficient, there are more advanced treatment options available for severe allergies:

Allergen Immunotherapy

Allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment that can significantly reduce allergy symptoms and, in some cases, lead to remission. This approach involves exposing the immune system to gradually increasing doses of specific allergens, training it to become less reactive over time.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy is an alternative to allergy shots that involves placing small doses of allergen extracts under the tongue. This method can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are averse to injections or have difficulty adhering to a regular shot schedule.

Biologics

For severe allergic conditions, such as chronic hives or severe asthma, biologic medications may be prescribed. These targeted therapies work by blocking specific pathways in the immune system that contribute to allergic reactions.

How long does it take for immunotherapy to show results? While individual responses vary, many patients begin to experience improvement in their allergy symptoms within the first year of treatment. However, the full benefits of immunotherapy typically manifest after 3-5 years of consistent treatment.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Allergy Management

While medications play a crucial role in managing allergies, dietary and lifestyle factors can also influence symptom severity and overall immune function. Consider the following approaches:

  • Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
  • Consume foods high in quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in apples, berries, and leafy greens
  • Stay hydrated to help thin mucus secretions and support overall immune function
  • Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress can exacerbate allergy symptoms
  • Engage in regular exercise to boost immune function and improve respiratory health

Can certain foods worsen allergy symptoms? Some individuals may experience oral allergy syndrome, where certain fruits and vegetables can trigger mild allergic reactions due to their similarity to pollen proteins. Common culprits include apples, peaches, and carrots for those with birch pollen allergies, and melons and bananas for those allergic to ragweed.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Allergy Treatment

The field of allergy research is continuously evolving, with scientists exploring new approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Some promising areas of study include:

Microbiome-Based Therapies

Researchers are investigating the role of the gut microbiome in allergic diseases and exploring the potential of probiotics and prebiotics to modulate immune responses and reduce allergy symptoms.

Targeted Immunotherapies

Scientists are working on developing more precise and effective immunotherapies that can target specific components of allergens, potentially leading to faster and more durable results.

Gene Therapy

Advances in genetic research are opening up possibilities for gene therapy approaches that could potentially prevent or cure allergic conditions by modifying the underlying genetic factors that contribute to allergic responses.

Artificial Intelligence in Allergy Management

AI-powered tools are being developed to help predict allergy outbreaks, personalize treatment plans, and improve the accuracy of allergy diagnoses.

What role will personalized medicine play in future allergy treatments? As our understanding of the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to allergies grows, personalized medicine approaches are likely to become increasingly important. These tailored strategies may involve customized immunotherapies, targeted medications, and individualized lifestyle recommendations based on a person’s unique genetic profile and environmental exposures.

Environmental Strategies for Reducing Allergen Exposure

While it’s impossible to completely avoid allergens, there are several environmental strategies that can help reduce exposure and minimize symptoms:

Home Modifications

  • Use allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows
  • Regularly wash bedding in hot water (130°F or higher)
  • Remove carpets or use low-pile options that are easier to clean
  • Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture and prevent mold growth
  • Implement a “no shoes” policy indoors to reduce tracking in of outdoor allergens

Outdoor Strategies

  • Check pollen forecasts and limit outdoor activities on high-pollen days
  • Wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to reduce pollen contact with eyes and face
  • Avoid line-drying clothes outdoors during peak pollen seasons
  • Consider removing highly allergenic plants from your garden

How effective are air purifiers in reducing indoor allergens? High-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters can be very effective in reducing airborne allergens, including pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. For best results, use air purifiers in bedrooms and other frequently occupied spaces, and change filters regularly according to manufacturer recommendations.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis and Personalized Treatment Plans

Given the complexity of allergic conditions and the wide range of potential allergens, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management. Allergy testing can help identify specific triggers and guide treatment decisions. Common diagnostic methods include:

  • Skin prick tests
  • Blood tests (specific IgE tests)
  • Intradermal tests
  • Patch tests (for contact allergies)
  • Oral food challenges (for suspected food allergies)

Based on the results of these tests and a thorough evaluation of symptoms and medical history, allergists can develop personalized treatment plans that may include:

  1. Tailored medication regimens
  2. Specific allergen avoidance strategies
  3. Recommendations for environmental modifications
  4. Customized immunotherapy protocols
  5. Guidance on dietary changes and supplements

Why is a personalized approach important in allergy management? Each individual’s allergic profile is unique, influenced by factors such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle. A personalized approach ensures that treatment strategies are tailored to address specific allergens and symptoms, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing unnecessary interventions.

The Global Impact of Allergies and Climate Change

As climate change continues to alter ecosystems worldwide, the global prevalence and distribution of allergies are expected to shift. Some potential consequences include:

  • Introduction of new allergenic plant species to regions where they were previously absent
  • Changes in the timing and intensity of pollen seasons across different geographic areas
  • Increased prevalence of allergic diseases in populations previously less affected
  • Greater economic burden due to healthcare costs and reduced productivity

These changes highlight the need for ongoing research, public health initiatives, and global cooperation to address the growing challenges posed by allergies in a changing climate.

How can communities prepare for changing allergy patterns? Local and regional governments can take proactive steps such as:

  1. Implementing pollen monitoring systems
  2. Developing early warning systems for high-allergy days
  3. Educating healthcare providers on evolving allergy trends
  4. Promoting allergy-friendly urban planning and landscaping practices
  5. Supporting research on local allergen patterns and their health impacts

By taking a comprehensive and proactive approach to allergy management, individuals and communities can better navigate the challenges posed by changing allergy seasons and work towards improved quality of life for those affected by allergic conditions.

When Is Allergy Season 2021

Life can be rough once allergy season hits. If you’ve ever suffered from a snotty nose, watery eyes, or itchiness, then you know exactly how annoying allergy season is for many—especially when it’s finally warm enough to enjoy the outdoors again.

Allergies can be especially frustrating in a year like 2021, when most people have been limited to the confines of their homes for months on end. Plus, thanks to climate change, it turns out that people’s allergies are actually getting worse over time. Temperature increases lead to more pollen production, which can be a major irritant for those with respiratory issues like asthma, one new study suggests. In short, this might be the longest, most intense allergy season yet.

But you can fight back against your allergies, experts say, and the sooner you get started the better. That means knowing when exactly allergy season will start this year, and how to prep your body for any allergen invaders. Keep reading.

When does allergy season 2021 start

?

Well, it’s technically *always* allergy season due to year-round offenders such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander, says Purvi Parikh, MD, an allergist and immunologist with Allergy & Asthma Network. But some allergens–pollens, specifically—are seasonal.

Jewelyn Butron

Tree pollen, for example, pops up in the spring (generally in late March to April), grass pollen arrives in the late spring (around May), weed pollen is most prevalent in the summer (July to August), and ragweed pollen takes over from summer to fall (late August to the first frost), says Dr. Parikh.

And, as mentioned, climate change means allergy season begins earlier and lasts longer, adds Corinne Keet, MD, PhD, a professor and allergist at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Specifically, the season has been arriving 20 days earlier than it did in 1990, and contains at least 20 percent more pollen, the New York Times reported.

To get super-specific, Pollen.com has a National Allergy Map that provides an up-to-date allergy forecast in different areas around the country and an Allergy Alert app that gives five-day forecasts with in-depth info on specific allergens, helping you decide if you should stay indoors that day. You should also note that windy, warm, and sunny days can increase levels of pollen turnout, while drizzling or rainy weather is actually associated with no or lower levels of seasonal pollen, explains Clifford W. Bassett, MD, medical director at Allergy and Asthma Care of New York.

And while you might think that allergy season is just that, allergies, it actually poses a pretty significant health risk depending how severely your area is hit. For people with major lung issues like asthma, allergens like pollen exposure can be a major threat to their physical health, ability to breathe, etc. Research also shows that kids perform worse in school during allergy season, and that pollen exposure weakens your immune system’s ability to fight off respiratory illnesses.

When should I start taking allergy meds?

There’s no point in waiting until you’re miserable to take allergy meds, especially if you want to keep up your outdoor workouts. In fact, allergists recommend you start taking meds a couple weeks before allergy season arrives, or, at the latest, take them the moment you begin having symptoms, says Dr. Parikh. Taking them early can stop an immune system freak-out before it happens, lessening the severity of symptoms, he adds. Check out the National Allergy Map to figure out when to start taking meds depending on where you live.

As for which allergy meds to take, if you’re seriously stuffed, start with steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase or Rhinocort, which reduce inflammation-induced stuffiness, says Dr. Keet. And if you’ve got itching, sneezing, and a runny nose, too, look for non-sedating antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Xyzal, or Allegra, she adds. Just remember: While OTC allergy meds suppress symptoms, they don’t cure the problem, so they may be less effective if your allergies are worsening, notes Dr. Parikh.

What can I do if my allergy meds aren’t working…or my allergies are getting worse?

If you’re already taking OTC allergy meds (and, you know, keeping your windows closed and washing your face and hair after coming inside), allergy shots, a.k.a. allergen immunotherapy, make your immune system less reactive to allergens (read: pollen), and for some people, they can even induce a cure, says Dr. Parikh.

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“By giving small increasing doses of what you are allergic to, you train the immune system to slowly stop being as allergic,” she says. “This is the best way to address allergies, as it targets the underlying problem and builds your immunity to a specific allergen.”

The downside? Allergy shots are a bit of a time commitment. You’ll need to get them once a week for six to eight months, then once a month for a minimum of two years, says Dr. Parikh. You need to be a little bit patient, too, because it can take about six months to start feeling better (so if you want protection by March, you’ll probably have to start in September the year before). But a life without allergies? Sounds worth it to me.

How can I tell if my symptoms are allergies or COVID-19?

Before you stress out, know that there’s one positive aspect when it comes to allergens in the year 2021: “Masks mean less inhalation of pollen through the nose or mouth, and that may translate to decreased symptoms for some sufferers,” explains Manisha Relan, MD, a board-certified allergist. Noted!

That said, if you’re worried about telling the difference between symptoms, whenever they do arise, listen up: The COVID and allergy symptoms that typically overlap are headaches, wheezing, and sore throat. It’s also possible to experience nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing with COVID, too, though these are more commonly allergy symptoms. A dry cough, shortness of breath, and loss of smell, are all likely COVID-19 symptoms, though there’s always the possibility that these are the side effects of allergies.

Overall, though, if you’re having trouble telling if your symptoms are allergies or COVID, your best bet is to check in with a doctor’s office or urgent-care center.

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When Is Allergy Season? Symptoms and Treatment for Seasonal Allergies

  • Allergy season is usually most severe in the spring, around the first week of May. 
  • That’s because seasonal allergies — called allergic rhinitis or hay fever — commonly occur due to pollen from trees and grass, which are most prevalent in the spring and early summer.
  • However, some plants may pollinate later in the summer or fall — here’s what you need to know about each allergy season, the main symptoms of seasonal allergies, and how to treat them. 
  • This article was medically reviewed by Omid Mehdizadeh, MD, otolaryngologist and laryngologist at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Pacific Eye, Ear & Skull Base Center at Providence Saint John’s Health Center. 
  • This story is part of Insider’s guide to Seasonal Allergies.

Allergies can happen year-round. But there is a time of year when about 8% of Americans experience the same allergy, nation-wide. 

Here’s what you need to know about allergy season, when it strikes, and how to prepare.

When is allergy season?

Allergy season often refers to a specific type of allergy, called allergic rhinitis (or hay fever), that can be triggered by pollen. 

Trees, flowers, and grasses typically release pollen in the spring and summer months. However, certain allergies can also happen in the fall, like those caused by weeds.   

It all depends on what type of plant you’re allergic to and when that plant pollinates. Here’s a breakdown of

seasonal allergies
during the spring, summer, and fall.

Spring

Tree pollination begins in February and lasts until June, and grass pollination starts in May and lasts until July. 

“The first week of May, when grass pollen starts to surge, is the worst time overall because a lot of people who are allergic to tree pollen are also allergic to grass pollen,” says Gary Stadtmauer, MD, FACP, a board-certified specialist in allergy-immunology and internal medicine at City Allergy. 

You can also get an idea of how bad your spring allergies may be based on the prior winter.

“Tree pollen tends to be the worst, especially after a prolonged winter when lots of trees bloom in a short space of time,” Stadtmauer says. “Unlike grass pollen, tree pollen can rain down thick and the layers can build up on surfaces like cars. Exposure increases dramatically and those who are allergic can have a profound surge in symptoms.”

Summer

Tree and grass pollination lasts until June or July and ragweed pollination starts in August. 

However, summer has generally been considered the least problematic season because plants release less pollen overall during this season.   

“Spring has typically been the worst allergy season, and fall is more problematic than summer for those with weed allergies,” says Clifford W. Bassett, MD, the founder and medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York. 

Fall 

The most common culprit for fall allergies is ragweed, a plant that grows especially on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Ragweed blooms and releases pollen from August to November, and pollen levels are highest in early to mid-September. 

Another common trigger of fall allergies is mold spores. As leaves fall to the ground and other vegetation starts to die, mold can start to grow on that decaying material. The mold then releases spores into the air which can cause allergies for some, says Jay M. Portnoy, MD, director of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology division at Children’s Mercy Hospitals & Clinics. 

Other plants that can trigger fall allergies include:

  • Burning bush
  • Cocklebur
  • Lamb’s-quarters
  • Pigweed
  • Sagebrush and mugwort
  • Tumbleweed and Russian thistle

What makes allergy season worse

While the timing and severity of allergy season varies across the country, the following climate factors can influence exposure and symptoms:

  • Temperature. Mild winter temperatures can cause plants to pollinate earlier, and allergies may occur sooner in the spring. Tree pollen also thrives during cool nights and warm days, which is common in the spring and early summer. 
  • Rain. While rain can wash pollen away, it can also increase pollen counts, because rain bursts pollen particles, releasing smaller particles into the air at a much higher concentration. A rainy spring can also promote rapid plant growth and lead to an increase in mold, exacerbating allergy symptoms. 
  • Wind. Pollen counts increase on windy days because the particles are small, light, and dry. Wind keeps pollen particles airborne and can spread them over long distances. Hot, dry, and windy weather signals greater pollen and mold distribution, and therefore, worsened allergy symptoms.

Climate change has also increased the duration and severity of allergy seasons. “Tree pollen starts earlier, grass pollen extends further into the summertime, and we are seeing more severe ragweed seasons,” says Stadtmauer. 

Seasonal allergy symptoms

The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies are: 

  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Shortness of breath 

If you’re not sure what your symptoms are indicating, here’s a helpful graphic to differentiate allergy symptoms from the coronavirus, flu, and

common cold
: 

Shayanne Gal/Insider

Seasonal allergies treatment

To prepare for seasonal allergies, we asked Bassett for his tips on how to proactively reduce your exposure to pollen and manage your allergies: 

  • Get tested. Allergy tests can help pinpoint exactly what’s triggering your sensitivities. These tests are usually done under the guidance of an allergy specialist. A skin prick test — where you are exposed to a small amount of the suspected allergy — is usually reliable for diagnosing pollen allergies, but you can also get a blood test, which may be safer.
  • Know the pollen or mold count. Check your local weather reports to identify peak allergy days. Pollen levels often increase on windy, dry, and sunny days — and decrease on wet, rainy, and still days. This scale will help you determine if the count is low, moderate, high, or very high. The concentration level, which is measured in pollen or spores per cubic meter, varies greatly for each type of pollen or mold. 
  • Start medications early. Start your allergy medicines up to one to two weeks prior to the onset of pollen season. “Even if it means taking a bit more than necessary, it’s always best to start early,” Stadtmauer says.” Some people will wait until the point that they’re so congested that the steroid nasal sprays can’t be sniffed in.” The advice applies to sprays and pills, as pre-treatment can help prevent inflammation and ease symptoms.
  • Try immunotherapy. Tablets and allergy shots can help reduce symptoms and provide relief by exposing patients to tiny amounts of the allergen, so the body can build tolerance. Allergy shots, which are injected into the skin of the arm by a doctor, are the most commonly used form of allergy immunotherapy. Tablets, which are placed under the tongue, can be taken at home but are only available for grass and ragweed pollen. 
  • Wear sunglasses. Big sunglasses can help block airborne pollen from entering your eyes and eyelids. 
  • Protect your hair. Pollen is easily transferable from hair onto bedding, sheets, and pillows. Wearing a hat, preferably a wide-brimmed one, protects your hair from collecting pollen. Avoiding hair gel, which pollen can stick to, may also help.
  • Wash your hair and change your clothes often. Shower and wash your hair nightly to rinse pollen from your skin and hair. After you go outside, change your clothing before entering your bedroom to reduce pollen from being brought in. 

How Long Does Allergy Season Last? – Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic

Spring is always a time to celebrate as you move out of the dark, cold winter and into longer, sunnier days. But with the change of seasons comes the arrival of allergies and for some people, it feels like they don’t relent until months later, when a chill hits the air again.

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According to allergist-immunologist David M. Lang, MD, the various allergy seasons stretch for much of the year.

“Tree pollen season is usually at the beginning of spring in March, April, and the first half of May while the grass pollen season is typically mid-May through early-to-mid-July,” he says. “And the ragweed season is usually from mid-August until that first frost.”

He adds that the calendar can vary year to year, depending on meteorological conditions. For instance, a cold and wet spring can delay the tree pollen season and cause it to overlap with the peak of grass pollen season, causing a double whammy for allergy sufferers.

Daily weather can also affect pollen counts on given days. “Rain washes pollen from the air, so rainy days tend to be days with lower pollen counts,” Dr. Lang says. “Conversely, warm and breezy summer days typically have higher pollen counts.”

Mold spores, more problems

Besides pollen, patients may also become sensitized to airborne mold spores.
“Molds are much more numerous in ambient air than pollens,” Dr. Lang notes, “and there are molds that are present in high amounts in damp, rainy conditions. More importantly, though, warmer weather can be a particularly bad time for mold.

“There are molds that peak on days of maximum heat and humidity. So later in the summer, particularly from mid-July to early-September, is when the mold count gets very high,” he says.

This can make a bad combination for many people who are allergic to both one or more pollens and molds. “That’s a common pattern,” Dr. Lang says, “that people will have these symptoms year-round and have a peak of symptoms in the spring and summer.”

Many of the patients Dr. Lang sees, he says, are polysensitized, or allergic to multiple allergens. “Sometimes we’ll see people with classic symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis (nasal and eye symptoms) that occur seasonally – such as mid August through the frost, and we know it’s likely from ragweed.”

“But, more frequently, we see people with year-round symptoms and there are peaks in the warmer times of the year. But then we may find on skin testing they’re sensitized to pollens and molds, as well as dust mites and cat or dog dander.”

Geographic differences

Complicating matters a bit further is where you’re at geographically. For instance, in California, Bermuda grass is the major pollen allergen that triggers symptoms and ragweed isn’t an issue.

And in Texas, it’s mountain cedar trees. “The cedar trees there pollinate early in the year, in January and February and they can have much higher counts of tree pollen in the air than we would have in Northeast Ohio.”

How to cope

While allergies can make you feel absolutely miserable, it doesn’t have to always be that way. Dr. Lang recommends a combination of avoidance and medication. For instance, closing the windows of your house (and your car when driving around) and using your air conditioner can greatly reduce the amount of pollen indoors.

Medication is also hugely important in helping to manage symptoms and keep you focused even when those pollen counts get high.

Intranasal steroids

“Intranasal steroids are the most effective medication for dealing with allergies,” says Dr. Lang. Available over-the-counter, Rhinocort, Nasacort and Flonase are intranasal steroids and are effective and safe to use.

Antihistamines

Another effective measure against allergies, says Dr. Lang, are oral antihistamines. “If you’re going to take an antihistamine,” he advises, “you should take one that’s either non-sedating or low-sedating.” These, called second-generation antihistamines, include Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec and Xyzal.

Allergists and allergy shots

If these don’t work, though, Dr. Lang assures us there’s still hope. “If you’re experiencing a level of symptoms that interferes with your desire to pursue activities or your symptoms are interfering with work or school performance, causing sleep disruption or sleep impairment despite avoidance measures and regular medications, you should see an allergist,” he says.

He also adds that allergy shots, called allergen immunotherapy, are also an option for properly selected patients. “The allergy shots offer the potential to affect the underlying allergic potential that drives symptoms.”

With so many Americans suffering from seasonal allergies, Dr. Lang encourages patients to seek out the right combination of remedies that can help them, including seeing an allergist. “We frequently see patients who are suffering needlessly and we can help.”

Seasonal Allergies: A Month-to-Month Guide to Your Allergies – Manhattan Allergist | New York Allergy Doctor

Do you experience allergies year-round? Or, do your allergies seem to flare up for just a few months out of the year?

Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, skin rash, runny nose, wheezing, coughing, and itchy, watery eyes, among others. You may associate your symptoms with “allergy season,” but what does that mean? Many people think that “allergy season” only occurs in the spring months when pollen is in the air. In reality, however, there is no one single “allergy season” that applies to all people with allergies. It really depends on what you are allergic to and where you live.

Someone with an allergy to tree pollen may experience allergy symptoms during the spring or summer when pollen is more prevalent, while someone with an allergy to dust mites may experience more symptoms during the cold winter months when more time is spent indoors. Your symptoms are related to exposure.

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when you’re most likely to come into contact with certain allergens:

January: Indoor allergens are more of a problem during the winter because more time spent inside your home also means increased exposure to things like dust mites, pet dander, and mold. You can reduce your exposure by eliminating these allergens from your home by keeping humidity below 40%, washing your bedding in hot water, and regularly vacuuming and cleaning your home. (Tip: your should use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.)

While it is relatively rare, some people may also experience cold urticaria, which is an allergic reaction to cold temperatures. It can cause hives, redness, swelling, and itching after you’ve been exposed to the cold.

February: Indoor allergens may continue to aggravate your symptoms in February. It is also possible to see tree pollen popping up around the U.S. in this month, even in the colder Northeast. Allergy symptoms may be caused by pollen from alder, maple, hickory, elm, and walnut trees, among others. Cedar trees also pollinate in the winter months (December through March). Tree pollen can cause the same allergy symptoms that are common in “spring allergies,” such as sneezing, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.

March: With winter beginning to transition into spring, pollen will become more of an issue in March. In addition to tree pollen, pollen from weeds and grasses may also be an issue if spring comes early. Make sure you load up your favorite pollen tracker app onto your phone when March rolls around! Knowing the pollen count can help you plan your daily activities in an effort to reduce exposure to allergens (ex. exercising outdoors when pollen counts are low).

April: Make sure to make an appointment with your allergist and stock up on medications before April rolls around if you have a pollen allergy – April is the height of pollen production for many trees, grasses, and weeds. This can leave many people with seasonal allergies feeling pretty miserable. Remember to keep your windows closed to avoid letting airborne allergens into your home.

May: Tree and grass pollens are still a concern in May. You may also start to see more insects out and about, so stay alert if you are allergic to insect stings or bites.

June: Grass pollens like bermuda, oat, and rye are in full effect in June and can be affected by environmental changes, such as temperature and rainfall. If you haven’t experienced any symptoms from grass pollen yet, it’s likely you may start noticing symptoms during this month. As the temperature warms up you’ll probably want to spend more time outside, which means increased exposure to pollen. (Remember to check your pollen tracker app before you head outside.) You can avoid bringing pollen into your home by taking your shoes off at the door and changing your clothes as soon as you get inside. It’s also a good idea to shower before you go to sleep to avoid bringing pollen into your bed.

July: The month of July brings some good news with it: grass and tree pollen levels should start to reduce. Unfortunately, however, weed pollen may still be an issue and fungus and mold spores start to make an appearance. Mold spores can be found in damp environments, so check your bathroom and basement for any collected moisture or leaks.

August: Mold levels will begin to peak due to the hot, humid weather. Ragweed season also begins during mid August and it can be a difficult pollen to avoid – it has been found two miles into the atmosphere and 400 miles out at sea! The best course of action is to take your medications and avoid exposure.

September: Weed pollens continue to be a problem for allergy sufferers in September, and ragweed will reach its peak in the middle of the month. A single ragweed plant can produce billions of grains of pollen and some of that pollen might be around until the first frost of the season.

October: You might get some relief from your fall allergy symptoms during October, but there are still allergens hanging around. Increased rainfall can cause a growth in the production of mold spores.

November: Here’s something to be thankful for in November: ragweed season is on its way out! November is one of the better months for people with outdoor allergies as pollen levels decline during this month. However, as things get chillier and you once again start to spend more time indoors you’ll have to cope with mold, dust, and pet dander.

December: As in November and January before it, indoor allergies will be a concern in the month of December. Those with an allergy to dust mites may see more symptoms during December as holiday decorations are brought out of storage and anyone with an allergy to mold should be careful if they bring a living Christmas tree into the home as there could be mold spores on the branches.

Are you prepared for your own personal “allergy season”? The first step for preparing for allergy season is to be tested to learn what you are allergic to. Once you know what brings your allergy symptoms on, you can reduce or avoid exposure no matter what time of year it is.

If you have any questions about managing your allergies, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help! Feel free to give us a call at 212-729-1283 or email us at [email protected].

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Month By Month Guide to Pollen Allergies

Month By Month Guide to Pollen Allergies | ZYRTEC®
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Ever wonder what the pollen is going to be like each month? The weather, location, and time of year determine which types of pollen are most prevalent. This quick guide can help you understand which months have the highest levels of pollen and help you plan ahead throughout the year.

TRESS

GRASS

WEEDS

JANUARY

Cedar is high in South but otherwise pollen is low accross the US.

   

FEBRUARY

Tree pollen, like alder and maple, is starting to creep up everywhere.

   

MARCH

Tree pollen is dominant but weeds and grasses could start if Spring comes early.

   

APRIL

This is the height of tree pollen like pine, mulberry and willow.

   

MAY

It’s a double whammy month with trees and grass being high everywhere.

   

JUNE

This is the height of grass pollen like bermuda, rye and cat.

   

JULY

Just as we get some relief from tree pollen, weed pollen starts in earnest.

   

AUGUST

Weeds like pigweed, ragweed and nettle are in full effect.

   

SEPTEMBER

The height of weed pollen – with pollen grains that spread easily in the wind.

   

OCTOBER

Weeds are still high in the south and west but otherwise the air is pretty clear.

   

NOVEMBER

It’s a good month for outdoor allergies and ragweed is finally ending.

   

DECEMBER

Outdoor allergies are at a low except that pesky Cedar Fever in the South.

   

 

Try ZYRTEC® For monthly allergy relief

ZYRTEC® provides relief for pollen allergies day after day. Try our 30, 60, and 90 count options for month long allergy relief, any month you need it.

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Allergy Season – Access Health Louisiana


Allergy Season – Access Health Louisiana

Call 1-877-580-2066 to schedule a Telemedicine Visit with a provider.
Click here to enter the waiting room for Access Health Louisiana.  Click here to enter the waiting room for Acadian Care.


Factor

Allergy

Cold

EXCITER

Plant pollen

Hypothermia, viruses, bacteria

CHEERING

Frequent

Rare

NOSE DISCHARGE

Abundant watery and transparent

Liquid and transparent, after 2-3 days change to thicker and yellow-green

EYE STATUS

Itching, hyperemia and swelling of the eyelids, profuse lacrimation

Hyperemia and lacrimation are possible, but without itching and no more than 2 days

OTHER SYMPTOMS

Muscle aches, fever, sore throat, cough

DURATION

Seasonal, while there is contact with the allergen, up to 2-3 months.

About 7-10 days with subsequent recovery.