Allergy Season Survival Guide

Grab those tissues. Experts are predicting that the 2013 allergy season could be the most severe on record, and those of us in the Northeast could have it especially bad.

And why’s that?

• Climate change. As the planet warms, we’re seeing early springs, autumns that end late, and plenty of rain and snow. That gives pollen-producing trees and plants great conditions, and it’s easier for mold to grow and spores to release.
• Carbon dioxide. Our atmosphere now has historically high levels of the gas, which also nourishes trees and plants…and, in turn, leads to pollen, pollen, pollen!
• Extreme weather. After Hurricane Sandy and a winter full of blizzards, the Northeast has experienced wet conditions for months. Noticing a trend? That’s another prime set-up for pollen producers.
• The big “burst.” As a result of those conditions, experts are predicting that this year’s “burst” of pollen from trees and other plants will be stronger than normal this year. The pollen burst could increase another 30 percent by 2020, too.

If you’re already noticing allergy symptoms, then you’re not alone. Tree pollen has already made its debut, and relative to the amounts of pollen in the air so far, symptoms have proven to be pretty severe. (By the way, grass pollen typically comes around in the late spring and early summer, with ragweed holding out until late summer to early fall.)

The Northeast won’t be the only area hard-hit. Areas with hot spells and droughts will have more dust that prompts asthma. Climate change will impact the insect population (we all know to watch out for bites and stings) and make conditions easier for poison ivy, which now produces more potent oil. Last but not least, those of us in cities in the Northeast, Midwest and West will notice more concentrated ground-level ozone, adding to respiratory ailments.

Call us right away if you’re noticing new — or more severe — allergy symptoms. In the meantime, here are some of the helpful tips we tell our clients.

Allergy Season Survival Guide

• Wear sunglasses outside to avoid eye irritation.
• During allergy season, take your allergy medicine daily, even if you don’t notice symptoms.
• Remember that pollen levels are lowest in early morning and at twilight.
• Shower when you come home to eliminate pollen residue — and do laundry often.

Here’s to your health…and remember, we’re in this allergy season together!