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Each spring, summer,
and fall, tiny particles are released from trees, weeds, and grasses.
These particles, known as pollen, hitch rides on currents of air.
Although their mission is to fertilize parts of other plants, many
never reach their targets. Instead, they enter human noses and throats,
triggering a type of seasonal allergic rhinitis called pollen allergy,
which many people know as hay fever or rose fever (depending on the
season in which the symptoms occur). Of all the things that can cause
an allergy, pollen is one of the most widespread. Many of the foods,
drugs, or animals that cause allergies can be avoided to a great extent;
even insects and household dust are escapable. Short of staying indoors
when the pollen count is high--and even that may not help--there is
no easy way to evade windborne pollen. (Source: excerpt from Something
in the Air Airborne Allergens: NIAID)
Allergies that occur in the spring (late April and May) are often
due to tree pollen. Allergies that occur in the summer (late May to
mid-July) are often due to grass pollen. Allergies that occur in the
fall (late August to the first frost) are often due to ragweed.
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Preventive Strategies:
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Avoid the outdoors between 5-10
AM. Save outside activities for late afternoon or after a heavy
rain, when pollen levels are lower. |
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Keep windows in your home and car closed
to lower exposure to pollen. To keep cool, use air conditioners
and avoid using window and attic fans. |
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Be aware that pollen can also be transported
indoors on people and pets. |
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Dry your clothes in an automatic dryer rather
than hanging them outside. Otherwise pollen can collect on clothing
and be carried indoors. |
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