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Atlanta Faces Allergies As Pollen Count Rises

Blooming trees in Atlanta signaling the start of allergy season

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News Summary

Atlanta residents brace for allergy season as pollen counts soar to 137 for the first time this year. With tree pollen levels rising, local meteorologists are monitoring the situation closely. Elm, Juniper, Alder, Maple, and Birch trees are responsible for the increased pollen, while grass and weed levels remain low. As the peak pollen season approaches, allergy sufferers should prepare for heightened symptoms and consider updated antihistamine treatments.

Atlanta Faces Allergies As Pollen Count Rises

Atlanta, get ready! The pollen count has officially hit a high of 137 for the first time this year on February 7. This is a significant leap since the last time we saw such numbers was back on September 18 of the previous year. With warm weather being a key player, tree pollen levels are on the rise, as confirmed by the Severe Weather Team 2 Chief Meteorologist.

What’s Causing All the Sneezing?

If you’ve been feeling a little sneezy lately, you’re not alone! The culprits behind this uptick in pollen include some very familiar faces: Elm, Juniper, Alder, Maple, and Birch trees. Thankfully, as of February 7, grass and weed pollen levels remain in the low range. However, mold levels have been classified as moderate, adding to the mix for allergy sufferers.

A Look Back at Pollen Trends

Over the last decade, the average first high pollen count in Atlanta has tended to occur around February 9. While this year is just a couple of days shy of that mark, it’s interesting to note that the earliest recorded first high pollen count in the last 10 years happened on January 8, 2020. On the flip side, the latest was on March 5, 2015, making this year’s count quite noteworthy.

Buckle Up for Peak Pollen Season

As we approach the peak pollen season, which typically falls between late March and early April, residents should brace themselves. During this time, pollen counts can soar above 3,000, with Atlanta’s highest-ever recorded count reaching an astonishing 9,369 on March 20, 2012.

Climate Change and Allergy Seasons

Unfortunately, this rising trend in pollen counts isn’t just a seasonal annoyance; it can be attributed to climate change. This shift has extended allergy seasons and intensified symptoms for many individuals. According to a recent study from Emory University, Black patients in Atlanta are almost twice as likely to visit emergency rooms for pollen-related allergic asthma compared to their white counterparts.

Modern Relief for Old Problems

If you’re one of those experiencing the itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose, don’t worry. There’s good news on the medication front! Newer antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec offer relief without the drowsiness that’s often associated with older medications like Benadryl. Combining these antihistamines with nasal steroid sprays such as Flonase can also provide added relief.

What’s Next for Pollen Counts?

As we move into early April, we can expect even higher pollen counts as tree pollination continues. Trees like mulberry, oak, pine, sweet gum, and sycamore will contribute to the rising levels. For those curious about how pollen counts are tracked, it involves a meticulous process of daily collection and detailed examination of samples under a microscope.

Community Service for Allergy Sufferers

Since the early 1980s, pollen counts have been monitored to provide a valuable service to the public. What started as a resource for physicians has become a critical tool for individuals looking to manage their seasonal allergies effectively.

Access to Treatments

However, there’s a silver lining to consider, especially concerning the growing concern for allergy patients. As medication costs continue to rise, access to necessary treatments is becoming increasingly problematic for many.

So, Atlanta, make sure you’re prepared and equipped to tackle this allergy season head-on. Stay aware of the pollen counts, and don’t hesitate to reach for those antihistamines when the sneezing starts!