Coping with Pollen Allergies in Summer

Filed in archive Allergy Medications , Hay Fever , Living with Allergies on June 17, 2006

Spring is over. Does that mean those who have allergies to pollen can now breathe easier?

Not quite. Although cedars and other tree pollens may have already subsided in some areas (they're still abloom in ours, although relatively less compared to a few weeks back), summer might actually present more problems. As I've mentioned before, ragweed, the number one cause of asthma, don't even bloom til August. But aside from grass pollen, which is already ruining summer for my son, experts say that the high ozone levels may even compound the problems.

"For summer, it will be grass pollen along with high ozone levels combining for a one-two punch," said Dr. David Khan, associate professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "In July, cedar elm will appear."

While heat doesn't influence the amount of pollen in the air, it does aid in the formation of ground-level ozone, which, in turn, can exacerbate allergy symptoms.

If you don't remember, you might want to refer to a previous post about substandard ionic purifiers emitting high levels of ozone and aggravating asthma.

So how do you cope with "summer allergies"?

Pretty much the same way as you did for your spring allergies: Stay indoors. Time and take precautionary measures when you go outdoors (mask, medications, etc, as necessary).

If your symptoms are becoming unbearable, you might want to take some medications. Dr. David Khan, an allergist from UT Southwestern has some tips on choosing the right medication.

As always, check with your doctor first.