Sneezing? Sniffling? Itching? Some residents of the Pacific Northwest have had severe symptoms during this year’s peak allergy season. The grass is usually the main offender toward the end of May.
According to Mt. Scott Ear, Nose & Throat, & Sleep Medicine’s general otolaryngologist Dr. Aleen Lee, the early heat wave that rocked Western Oregon and Washington this spring caused seasonal allergies to impact patients earlier than typical.
βWeβve had really unusual weather and so that definitely impacts the pollen production β¦ when it gets very hot, then the tree pollen starts to bloom, followed by the grasses,β she explained. It’s ragweed allergy season in Oregon now.
Pollen count, the quantity of pollen grains or mold spores in one cubic meter of air, is important information for people who suffer from seasonal allergies caused to pollen. Those who are sensitive to allergens will certainly have symptoms if the count is high.
KOIN News also tweeted about pollen counts and how to read them to avoid sneezing in the Pacific Northwest.
We’re currently in peak allergy season in Oregon and Washington. πΈπ±π³ This local doctor has advice on how to minimize your symptoms. https://t.co/qCJT3zghXc
β KOIN News (@KOINNews) May 29, 2023
On Monday(29 May 2023), the pollen count in Portland was high for grass, moderate for trees, and low for ragweed. You might need to have an allergy test from a doctor to find out which kind of pollen you’re allergic to.
“If you’ve had allergy testing and you know what you’re allergic to, then before the season when the pollen is in the air, you can start to kind of take measures to protect yourself, keeping the windows closed, keeping the car doors, windows, and everything,” Lee said.
She mentioned that reducing exposure to pollen in the environment can assist. Allergy sufferers should also pay attention to the air quality. Pollutants like smog or smoke can irritate a person’s already inflamed nasal passages and lungs, making it more difficult for them to breathe.
According to Lee, polluted air from gases and smoke does not trigger allergic reactions. Those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory or health disorders already tend to experience worsened symptoms.
Lee suggested that avoiding allergens was the first line of defense against allergic reactions. Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons and avoid breathing in moldy air, for instance.
After that, she suggests folks try antihistamines of the second generation. Claritin, Allegra, Xyzal, and Zyrtec are examples of OTC drugs in this category. She also mentioned that nasal sprays are an option.
Lee suggests trying out the newer Astepro nasal spray, available without a prescription. In her opinion, it is beneficial for those who suffer from severe nasal congestion.
She warns against taking decongestants alongside allergy medication for an extended period of time. Products like Claritin-D, Allegra-D, and Zyrtec-D fall into this category. She emphasized that these drugs should not be used for long-term management but rather for short-term relief.
These links will take you to places where you can learn more about Oregon:
- State and Local Leaders From Oregon Take Part in Memorial Day Ceremonies.
- Oregon Senate President Becomes Speechless On Corruption During Live TV.
She warned that using decongestants for an extended period of time comes with risks, including hypertension. If you’ve tried over-the-counter allergy medications without success and believe you need more permanent therapy, a doctor’s appointment is in order.
Besides antibiotics and steroids, doctors like Lee may recommend allergy shots or eye drops.
Although spring is typically the worst time for allergies, some people are affected by mold and dust mites all year long. Lee stressed the importance of education and assistance for those who suffer from allergies.
