Pollens are fine, powdery grains released from plants to help fertilize other plants. Each type of plant makes its own pollen. When the pollen you’re allergic to is in the air, you might feel worse. Different types of plants pollinate during different times of year, and it’s helpful to know this pattern. Trees release pollen in the spring, grasses in the summer, and weeds in the fall. There are ways to limit your exposure to pollen, including: -Limit your time outdoors -Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen -Try a mask or other barrier to filter the air -Change your clothes when you return home for the day -Use the AC instead of opening windows -Don’t mow if you’re allergic to grass, or wear a mask if you must -Dry laundry inside -Bathe before bed to rinse off any pollen
Video Transcript
Pollens are fine, powdery grains that usually are carried by the wind.
Pollen comes from trees, grasses and weeds.
Different plants pollinate at different times of year. So, the tree pollens tend to be highest in the spring and then in the late spring through the summer is when the grass pollens are present… at the highest numbers. And then in the late summer into the fall is when the weed pollens are present.
Pollen counts are generally lower after 10a.m. or heavy rain.
People always thing that grass pollen is the only important thing to avoid when people are mowing , but actually if you think about it the other pollens, trees for example they have to fall somewhere. So, during the spring they fall on the lawn which is also the time of year when people are mowing.
When inside, keep the windows and doors shut and use the air conditioner if you can.
There may be some limits as far as the amount of time some people can spend outside if they’re allergic to the pollens and if their symptoms aren’t well enough controlled by medicines or allergy shots.
Lastly, shower before bed to rinse the pollen from your hair and skin.
To learn more visit: NationwideChildrens.org/Allergy-Asthma
