How Bad Will Allergy Season be in 2013- Atlanta ENT

The words that every allergy sufferer dreads hearing are true this year: 2013 will be one of the toughest for those with seasonal allergies. Some sources are claiming it will be the worst allergy season to date, largely due to climate change and increased greenhouse gases.

Unfortunately, the mild winter causes many trees to begin pollinating earlier than normal, allergy sufferers will have a double-blow, as the trees will continue to produce allergy inducing pollen through the spring. The pollen season is expected to last four weeks longer than usual this year, taking it well into fall.

What can you do to be proactive and help alleviate allergy symptoms this year?

• Schedule a consultation with Atlanta ENT early in the season. The best way to protect yourself against allergies is to identify and begin treatment before the symptoms are severe.
• Watch the pollen count. When pollen counts are high, avoid outdoor activities and stay indoors with an air conditioner as much as possible. Your home’s AC unit helps to filter pollen out of the air.
• Protect yourself from pollen by wearing a hat and sunglasses outdoors. Pollen also sticks to hair products, so only use hair sprays and similar products when you really need them.
• Wash your hair and clothes often, and change clothes before entering your bedroom. Pollen is carried in on your hair and clothing, and can linger in your personal space.

If you have not scheduled your allergy consultation with Atlanta ENT yet, please do so today. The longer you wait, the more difficult treatment can become.

Ramie A. Tritt, MD, President of Atlanta ENT