ACAAI shares little-known facts about allergy season
To help those with seasonal allergies cope this spring, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has put together a list of spring allergy facts:
Every year is labeled as the worst for allergy symptoms, and there could be some truth to that. According to a recent study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, pollen counts slowly rise annually and are expected to double by the year 2040. This is due to economic growth, global environment sustainability, temperature and human-induced changes, such as increased levels of carbon dioxide.
Taking allergy medication should be done well before the first sneeze. Allergists recommend to begin treating two weeks before symptoms typically surface.
A mild winter may cause an early release of pollens from certain trees, and a longer season may be worsened by the priming effect. Once allergy sufferers are exposed to this early pollen, their immune system is primed to react to the allergens, meaning there will be little relief even if temperatures cool down before spring is in full bloom. If weather reports call for a streak of warm days, patients should begin taking medication.
April showers could bring about allergy symptoms. Rain can promote plant and pollen growth. Wind accompanying a rainfall can stir pollen and mold into the air, also heightening symptoms. Allergists advise sufferers stay indoors when pollen counts are highest, which is often midday and afternoon hours.