Enjoy spring, limit pollen

By Julie Jordan
Published May 18, 2018

Spring is in full bloom in Georgia, and if you have seasonal allergies, your nose knows it. Pollen counts have been at record-setting levels, yellow-green film coats cars, and as one viral video shows, trees are spreading it through the air faster than you can grab a tissue.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, allergies are the sixth-leading cause of chronic illness in the nation, and over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year.

Allergic reactions to pollen occur when trees, weeds and grass release tiny pollen grains to fertilize plants of the same species, and the body’s immune system overreacts by causing inflammation and obstruction in the lungs.  

Grass pollen causes most allergic reactions. Those who are allergic experience hay fever with symptoms of:  

  • runny nose and mucus production
  • sneezing
  • itchy nose, eyes, ears and mouth
  • stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
  • red and watery eyes
  • swelling around the eyes

One of the best ways seasonal allergy sufferers can prepare for the pollen they will experience each day is to monitor pollen counts. Visit pollen.com to know the pollen count in the location where you plan to spend time outside. Then, take these practical steps:

  1. Limit your outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
  2. Keep windows closed.
  3. Use central AC with a HEPA filter attachment in your home and any vehicle.
  4. Bathe and shampoo your hair daily before going to bed to remove pollen.
  5. Wash bedding in hot, soapy water once a week.   
  6. Wear sunglasses and a hat to keep pollen out of your eyes and off your hair.
  7. Limit close contact with pets that spend a lot of time outdoors.
  8. Change and wash clothes worn during outdoor activities.
  9. Dry your clothes in a clothes dryer, not on an outdoor line.
  10. Talk with the doctor about medicine for your pollen allergy.

To prevent paint damage to your car, rinse it off once a week.

Seasonal allergies can sometimes lead to more serious health conditions like sinusitis and asthma. Don’t forget to talk with your healthcare provider about the right allergy treatment for you. To learn more, visit the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America at aafa.org.