Southeast Michigan due for 'Pollen Explosion" as Allergy Season begins

FERNDALE --While winter does its best to hang on, the weather forecast makes it clear we could be just days from a “pollen explosion” and the start of the allergy season in Southeast Michigan.

This week’s colder temperatures have slowed the beginning of the allergy season, but as the trees burst forth with buds and the promise of spring, the warm breeze that accompanies it carries airborne pollen and mold spores. For most of us, we breathe them in with impunity. But, if you are allergic to them, these allergens send the body’s immune system into a frenzy. You feel it as sneezing, a stuffy nose, and itching, watery eyes.

Estimates of the people affected by hay fever range from about 30 million to 60 million annually. No matter how many are affected, the late winter means spring will burst out all at once. Doctors predict this may be the worst allergy season in years.

“Tree pollen season comes each spring,” said Dr. Greg Naman, board-certified Internist and Pediatrician at EPIC Primary Care in Ferndale. “But this year, the damp and rainy conditions, followed by warm weather, could lead to a high concentration of mold.”

Take Action Now

Know Your Allergy – No need to fear the dozens of pin pricks that used to be the only way to test for allergies. “We can give you a simple blood test, right in the office to identify the most common allergies,” said Naman. “Not only is it less pain, but many times there is no need to bring in a costly specialist,” he continued. EPIC PC offers convenient hours, including Saturdays, for allergy shots.

Check the Pollen Count Everyday – Plan your outdoor activities on days with lower pollen counts. Pollen concentrations are usually highest from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m., according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Check your local pollen counts at sites such as Pollen.com.

Keep a Journal – Track when you start having symptoms and start your medicine 2 weeks prior.

Start Taking Your Medicine Today – “If you wait until you have symptoms, the antihistamines are much less effective,” said Naman, as he advises his patients to be proactive.

Once Allergy Season Hits

Dr. Naman offers this advice to reduce your exposure to allergens:

Mow with a Mask – Yard work is a real chore if you are battling itchy, watery eyes. The M&M rule really helps. An inexpensive paper mask can block much of the pollen in the air, and sunglasses can help keep pollen out of your eyes.

Use Your Air Conditioning – It is tempting to open the windows and let in some of the fresh air. But once allergens are inside, it’s hard to get them out. There is also no shame in keeping the windows rolled up in your car.

Change Clothes and Shower – Do this as soon as you get home from work or any outdoor activity. This will help wash off the pollen.