Is pollen relief on the way?

By Karen McNew
WSLS10 Anchor
Published: May 8, 2008

I know we need the rain and I hope it will mean less medicine will be needed to take care of the signs of spring and summer that I could do without… I forgot my allergy medicine today and I really could feel it.. my throat was sore and I just wished I had taken that stupid little pill before I left home today…

I found some information from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, “Trees pollinate in late winter and spring. Ash, beech, birch, cedar, cottonwood, box, elder, elm, hickory, maple and oak pollen can trigger allergies.  Grasses pollinate in late spring and summer. Those that cause allergic reactions include Kentucky bluegrass, timothy, Johnson, Bermuda, redtop, orchard, rye and sweet vernal grasses.”

I also found some Dos and Don’ts from the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology:

DO keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens or molds from drifting into your home. Instead, if needed, use air conditioning, which cleans, cools, and dries the air.

DO minimize early morning activity when pollen is usually emitted-between 5-10 a.m.

DO keep your car windows closed when traveling.

DO try to stay indoors when the pollen count or humidity is reported to be high, and on windy days when dust and pollen are blown about.

DO take a vacation during the height of the pollen season to a more pollen-free area, such as the beach or sea.

DO take medications prescribed by your allergist/immunologist regularly, in the recommended dosage.

DON’T take more medication than recommended in an attempt to lessen your symptoms.

DON’T mow lawns or be around freshly cut grass; mowing stirs up pollens and molds.

DON’T rake leaves, as this also stirs up molds.

DON’T hang sheets or clothing out to dry. Pollens and molds may collect in them.

DON’T grow too many, or overwater, indoor plants if you are allergic to mold. Wet soil encourages mold growth.