The return of warmer weather brings the dreaded return of seasonal allergies, and recent years have seen longer and more intense allergy seasons.
“Especially springtime, allergies have been triggered a little bit earlier in recent years. And, this year seems to be no exception. We may be anticipating an early and pretty intense spring allergy season,” said Heather Lehman, associate professor of pediatrics and division chief for allergy immunology and rheumatology in the Department of Pediatrics at the University at Buffalo.
Warmer temperatures and fewer freezing days in the winter bring earlier thaws in the spring, which can specifically impact mold allergies since decayed plant matter underneath thawing snow is a great place for mold to grow.
“But for people that don't have allergies until the trees start pollinating, that'll be more in the April to early May timeframe, depending on how our spring goes,” said Lehman.
Mold and pollen are the biggest factors that impact people during allergy season.
“It takes exposure to develop allergies. So we're not born with our environmental allergies. Some indoor allergies can start in the first couple years of life, but many people might not show up, having their seasonal allergy symptoms until they're in preschool, all elementary school. And for some people, even later after that,” said Lehman.
And while you can’t outgrow your allergies, you can find ways to control them.
“Fortunately, there are a lot of over-the-counter medications available for, allergies that are quite safe, like antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays,” Lehman said.
It’s never a bad idea to talk to your doctor about ways to help allergies, especially if medications aren’t working. Limiting exposure to the things you’re allergic to can also help keep symptoms in check.
“We want to go out and enjoy this nice weather, but we don't want that outdoors to come indoors," Lehman said. "So keep windows closed in the house, if you have allergies, especially in the bedroom, after enjoying time outside. If you're battling allergies, change out of those outdoor clothes and take a quick shower so you don't bring those allergens in.”
