Outdoor Allergies: Pollen
Although many plants produce pollen, the ones that cause the most problems for allergy sufferers are tiny, light, dry pollens produced by trees, grasses, and weeds. These pollens are carried and spread by the wind, often travelling far — hundreds of miles even — from their source.
This means you can't really control being exposed to pollen when you’re outside. It's better to stay indoors when pollen counts are high, and to try to keep your indoor environment as free from pollen as possible.
Tips to reduce nasal allergy symptoms
from pollen
- Keep track of the pollen count each day! Find your own local daily pollen forecast
- Keep windows closed overnight and in the morning
- Plan outdoor activities for later in the day, after most plants have released their pollen
- Wear a mask when cutting grass or raking leaves
- Take off your shoes before coming inside the house
- To help prevent symptoms, your healthcare professional may tell you to start taking your allergy medicine 1 to 2 weeks before pollen season starts in your area
- Take steps to allergy-proof your home
When Are Pollen Allergies at Their Worst?
That depends on which type of pollen you're allergic to and where you live. In general, there is pollen in the air from spring through fall. But in warmer climates, there may be pollen in the air all year long.