The worst pollen season ever...?

Every spring you hear it... "This is going to be the worst pollen season ever."

You might be wondering what's going on. Are people just being hysterical and looking to complain? Or is there any truth to these claims?  If so, why are the seasons getting worse?  What actually makes for the worst pollen season ever?

What makes for the worst pollen season ever?

• Warm temperatures in Jan-Feb are a pleasant relief from the biting cold of winter, but trigger trees to start blooming and pollinating early.
• Low levels of pollen during these winter months "prime" our immune systems towards the pollen. 
• When the pollen gets into full force in the spring, because our systems are primed, it takes less pollen to trigger a reaction

Are the allergy seasons getting worse? 

• Warmer temperatures and shorter winter stretches are prolonging the pollinating seasons for plants.  
• Plants are producing more pollen for you to have a reaction to.
• Some believe that the increase in the warmer months is producing stronger pollen.
• Longer exposure to pollens means that your allergy symptoms will be longer.
• Increases in CO2 (carbon dioxide) causes plants to grow faster and more robust.  This may be an untold consequence of global warming on pollen.

So there may be some truth to the claim that it is going to be the worst pollen season ever.

Don't fear though, knowing what you're allergic to, early use of medications to prevent symptoms, and talking to your doctor or an allergist/immunologist can help you stay healthy and enjoy the spring.

Need more tips on how to battle your allergies?  Call the office for an appointment 212-679-3574 or click here Schedule an Appointment to schedule an appointment.