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POOLER, Ga. — With the advent of warmer weather, signs of spring are emerging, but so too are the telltale symptoms of allergy season. As pollen levels begin their annual climb, many are left grappling with the discomfort of allergies. Storm Team 3 is delving into what this means and offering tips on how to alleviate the symptoms.
For those susceptible to allergies, the onset of warmer days often heralds a period of itchy eyes, runny noses, congestion, and relentless sneezing. The increase in pollen is a key contributor to these symptoms, as trees begin to shed their pollen in response to the rising temperatures. The blustery conditions we’ve been experiencing only serve to exacerbate the issue.
Dr. Neha Kharod, an allergy expert at Prime Care in Pooler, explains the phenomenon: “When temperatures leap from 20 degrees to 30 degrees higher, plants interpret this as the end of winter and the start of spring, prompting them to release pollen profusely.”
This pollen release marks the beginning of the problem. As trees react to the warmer days, they emit fine grains of pollen into the atmosphere. On dry, breezy days, this pollen can travel considerable distances, affecting individuals even if they aren’t in close proximity to trees. For those with sensitivities, reactions can be immediate and uncomfortable.
Dr. Kharod further elaborates, “Currently, tree pollens are predominant. In Savannah, due to the persistent greenery, we also encounter grass and weed pollens, as well as mold from the humid conditions. However, what’s visibly coating everything around us is predominantly tree pollen.”
So how can you protect yourself? Dr. Kharod recommends monitoring the pollen count daily, keeping windows closed and washing up after time outdoors.
“When you are outside or working for extended periods, you want to make sure parts of your body are covered. Sometimes wearing a mask, or at least something to cover the mouth and nose, helps so that you’re not breathing in as much. When you come inside, immediately you should change those clothes and ideally shower and clean up head to toe so that you’re not spreading that stuff around.”
Storm Team 3 will continue to track pollen levels along with the forecast because, although spring in Savannah is beautiful, it’s not always easy on the sinuses.