Early spring can be good for trees and blossoms but miserable for allergy sufferers.
Springtime has arrived three weeks earlier than usual in several southeastern states this year. In the mid-Atlantic and northeast regions, it has arrived nearly four weeks ahead of schedule.
Areas of Texas, Arkansas, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey and New York have seen the earliest signs of spring in 40 years, according to the USA National Phenology Network at the University of Arizona. The network tracks the progression of spring by observing growth rates of leaf and flowers across the country.
In the coming months, many states in the Southeast and Great Plains will experience temperatures 4 degrees warmer than normal. The network’s map below shows the springtime leaf activity earlier than average (in red tones) and later than average (blue tones) this year:
Higher pollen counts and a longer, earlier pollen season are brought on by warmer temperatures. From 1990 to 2018, the overall amount of pollen increased by up to 21%; Texas and the Midwest experienced the largest increases, according to a study by the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
Where are pollen counts at their highest?
Why does pollen cause allergies?
Plants, trees and grass release pollen in the springtime to fertilize other plants of the same species. The powdery particles drift in the air and are easily inhaled.
In some people, inhaling pollen causes their immune systems to overreact. The immune system sees the pollen as a danger and releases antibodies that attack the allergens. This leads to the release of histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger runny noses, itchy eyes and other allergy symptoms.
How pollen affects your body
How to help stop allergy symptoms
Spotting seasonal triggers and taking steps to limit your exposure to pollen allergens can help reduce your symptoms. Here is what you can do to lessen your reaction:
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