2010: One Of the Worst Years for Allergy Seasons

Dr. Richard Lockey, president of the World Allergy Association is quoted as saying: "We've had recent days when there are as many as 6,000 pollen particles per cubic meter of air. And you need only 10 particles per cubic meter to trigger an allergic reaction in some people."

So why such a high pollen count this year? Partly due to our very crazy, very cold weather. Whereas most years, different trees bloom and shed pollen spread out through the months, the cold weather has kept many from blooming up until now. That means everything blooming at once.

Another allergy trigger is mold. With all the wet conditions whether it be from extreme amounts of snow or rain, more mold is growing than in any recent history.

2010: One of The Worst Years For Allergy Seasons-What Effect This Will Have On Allergy Sufferers

People that have suffered from allergies for years will unfortunately find that where they used to be able to treat themselves with over the counter medications, will find themselves having to receive treatment from doctors. Some people who have never suffered allergies may be triggered this year.

Others, like myself, may have been fine for years, and now find themselves struggling. Since I was a small child every spring and fall I would suffer what they called "seasonal asthma". It would start with what appeared a small cold, and end with me wheezing and in need of an inhaler and breathing treatments for the next two months.

I have been lucky enough to have sailed through the last couple years without any problems or need for treatment. This year is quite the contrary. As soon as the weather began to warm and the trees began to bloom, I awoke with that all too familiar wheeze.

Unfortunately, because the allergy season is so bad this year, it is very hard to get an appointment with the doctor, particularly allergists. So many people are seeking relief, these doctors are booked solid.

2010: One of The Worst Years For Allergy Seasons-Protect Yourself

It is best to stay indoors, with windows closed and air conditioner on if you have one. Make sure the filter is new and clean for the air conditioner. If you must go out, remember to shower and change your clothes when you come in. Pollen can and will stick to your clothing and hair. If you don't wash up upon returning home, the pollen will continue to aggravate despite being indoors. If you do have to go out, try to do so later in the day, or even the evening. Pollen counts are highest between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Take off your shoes outside. By keeping your shoes on that you wore outside, you will be tracking the pollen all through your house. Make sure you vacuum regularly, everyday to remove the pollen that settled on your rugs.

Check your house for mold. With one of the wettest years in a long time, mold is bound to grow. If you can't afford a professional, please check your house thoroughly yourself for any signs of mold.

If you have a history of allergies, do not wait until it is unbearable before you call your doctor. Since this allergy season is so bad, doctors are booked solid. If you wait until you are at your worst to call, you may have quite a wait before getting an appointment. Call at first sign, before it gets too bad, or even before symptoms develop if you have symptoms of allergies every year.

Personal Experience
http://www.worldallergy.org/index.php