Spring is pretty, but with the beauty comes dander, pollen, and other irritants that can cause people to suffer allergies. According to studies, Memphis is one of the top 12 cities with high levels of pollen. About one in five Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, tree pollen is the common trigger of Hay Fever in the spring. A few tree allergens include oak, cedar, birch, hickory, sycamore, maple, mulberry, elm, ash, juniper, cypress, and walnut. Grass pollen allergy season starts in late spring and summer. The most common grass allergens include bermuda, fescue, johnson, june, orchard, perennial, and rye.
The climate of the deep South enables longer spring seasons as the southern states get more light and humidity. This climate also facilitates the growth of a variety of pollen-producing plants and trees. The warmer southern states have longer and more intense allergy seasons starting with pollen production in April, and followed by grass and ragweed well into August. Oftentimes, these weed pollens do not peak until September but will disappear with the first frost.
Spring Allergy Management and Treatment:
Pollen counts are typically highest in the morning and on warm and windy days. Pollen can be difficult to avoid in the spring when pollen counts are high. Staying indoors and taking additional avoidance measures may be most important between 5 and 10 a.m. when allergen levels are typically at their highest. Steroids can also help serious allergy sufferers. Additionally, acupuncture is recommended when a patient would like a more natural way to ease their symptoms. Doctors can evaluate a patient for allergies if the person suffers from other conditions known to be linked to seasonal allergies such as asthma, eczema, and sleep disorders.
If you suffer from springtime allergies, call the Shea Clinic today and schedule an appointment. The Shea Clinic allergy program is overseen by Dr. Greg Staffel and the nursing personnel. He has been passionately involved with allergy services for over 20 years. Together, the Shea staff can offer a comprehensive approach to resolving your allergy problems. Call today at 800-477-SHEA, or locally at 901-761-9720.