Affectionately known as a “city in the forest,” Atlanta’s lush green canopy also makes this metropolis notorious for high pollen counts — especially in the spring when tree pollen peaks.
“We are sort of in the thick of the season or at least the beginning of the peak,” said Dr. Lily Hwang of Atlanta Allergy & Asthma, a large allergy practice in Georgia. “We are seeing patients come in with … watery, itchy eyes, runny nose, congestion.”
Severe seasonal allergies can interfere with daily activities. Symptoms can include severe headaches and brain fog, preventing people from enjoying spring-like temperatures outdoors and even sabotaging their sleep.
The pollen count has reached moderate levels according to the latest measurements released Wednesday by the Atlanta Allergy & Asthma’s pollen counting station, which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau. The Weather Channel’s 15-day allergy forecast predicts tree pollen will reach “very high” levels on Thursday.
Because there are other viruses circulating this time of year, it can be difficult to tell the difference. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies never cause a fever and only rarely cause a sore throat. Many other symptoms — a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing and tiredness — may be similar to a cold.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution connected with Hwang to talk about what’s causing the widespread allergy misery these days. She offered steps and strategies to help reduce symptoms.
What triggers springtime allergies?
If you experience allergic symptoms in the springtime, you are likely reacting to pollen from trees.
Contrary to popular belief, flowering trees such as cherry trees are usually not the problem. The pollen from flowering trees tends to be bigger and stickier and less likely to travel in the wind. The bright yellow pollen you see coating cars and sidewalks and cars is also not to blame for…
Read the full article here
