Spring allergy season has arrived. People who normally wouldn't even notice the change of season experienced watery eyes and sneezing. High pollen counts force allergy sufferers indoors, giving up visits to the park or a pick-up game of basketball because the sneezing, stuffiness and general misery of allergy symptoms are overwhelming.

 

Whether pollen counts will be high again this year or settle back into what is considered to be a normal range remains to be seen. Seasonal and daily weather conditions impact pollen counts, making it difficult to predict pollen counts more than a few days in advance.

 

On windy days, or for days after high winds, pollen counts are high because the pollen has been spread throughout the air. After it rains, counts drop as the rain washes the pollen away. Though high pollen counts can affect numerous types of allergies, from eye allergies (conjunctivitis) to skin reactions (dermatitis), the most common spring allergy is allergic rhinitis. Frequently called hay fever, seasonal allergic rhinitis affects 35 million people in the United States. It is triggered by "allergens," substances that initiate an allergic response, such as pollens or molds.

 

Seasonal allergies have a large impact on not just quality of life, but the economy. Missed work days because of allergies cost U.S. companies more than $250 million a year. Allergies, particularly in the spring have a huge impact across the country. Fortunately, medical treatment is usually very effective.

 

If allergies are making your spring less than enjoyable, there is help. For more information on finding a doctor that’s right for you, call the Rush North Shore Medical Center Physician Referral lines at 847-933-6000 or visit us on-line at www.rnsmc.org.        

           

 

 This information was reviewed by the AAAAI Public Education Committee