Pollen allergies: causes, symptoms and advice

Identify your triggers

In Canada, there are usually three pollen allergy periods: 

• Tree pollens, including from birch, alder, elm—in early spring
• Grass pollens (especially those present in lawns)—in spring and summer
• Weed pollens (like ragweed)—in late summer and fall

To determine exactly which pollens are causing your allergies, you will need to go for an allergy test. Once you know the results, you’ll be able to take the following preventive measures at exactly the right time.

Preventive Measure Outdoors

• Consult weather forecasting websites to check pollen counts in your area. 
• Avoid outdoor activities early in the morning (before 10 a.m.), and on windy or dry days. This is when pollen counts are highest. Pollen is less present in the air on rainy days. 
• If possible, have someone else mow your lawn and care for your flower beds. Otherwise, wear a mask. 
• Don’t hang your laundry to dry outside.

Preventive Measure Indoors

• Keep your windows closed to avoid pollen getting inside the house, even if you have insect screens. Pollen particles are so small they can pass through screen mesh. 
• Use an air purifier, especially in the bedroom, and change the filter regularly. 
• When you come in from outdoors, change your clothes and take a shower. Be sure to wash hair thoroughly, as pollen tends to stick to it. 
• Vacuum on a regular basis. Use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a high-efficiency (HEPA) filter.

Preventive Measures In the Car

• Keep the windows closed during pollen season.
• Change the car’s air filter on a regular basis.

 

Be aware that smoke (tobacco, cannabis, and vaping) makes allergy symptoms worse. 

If you have questions about how to treat seasonal allergies, your pharmacist can help. Go ahead and ask them!