Seasonal Allergy Pollen Counts
Season allergies affect millions of Americans each year, making it hard to get through their everyday routine without constantly sneezing, coughing, or experiencing watery eyes or a runny nose.
Luckily, Dr. James D. Gould, M.D., F.A.C.S. is proud to offer patients more information and treatment options for their seasonal allergy symptoms.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Seasonal allergies are an allergic response to environmental factors caused by a change in seasons, such as increased pollen in the air during spring. Also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, some people experience allergies all year round.
What Are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies?
While each patient may respond to seasonal allergy triggers differently, common symptoms of seasonal allergies can include:
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Mucus or postnasal drip
- Swollen eyes
- Extreme fatigue due to poor sleep
While many of these symptoms can look similar to symptoms of a common cold, patients should monitor the time of day and the things they interact with in their environments. This can easily determine whether their symptoms are triggered by a seasonal allergy cause or by a simple cold.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies?
Common seasonal allergens can include:
- Tree pollen
- Grass pollen
- Ragweed pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Spores
- Sagebrush
- Tumbleweed
- Molds
- Burning bush
When Should I See a Doctor for My Allergies?
Most patients are able to take over-the-counter histamines to manage their seasonal allergy symptoms. However, in extreme cases, there are certain tell-tale signs that you should see a doctor to manage your allergies. These signs can include the following:
- You notice antihistamines do not improve your symptoms.
- You cannot find relief from your symptoms.
- You experience painful or constant side effects from antihistamines.
- Another health condition makes it more difficult to manage allergy symptoms, such as asthma
- You are unsure what is causing your allergy symptoms.
Seasonal Allergy Pollen Counts
One way to reduce your allergy symptoms can be to understand pollen count. Click the button below for a convenient tool that shows the pollen counts each day, along with the severity level. This may help patients avoid certain areas and being outside during the times of the day when pollen counts are high. Doing so may prevent seasonal allergy symptoms from being triggered.
Why Choose Us
At St. Louis Sinus Center, you receive care that focuses on your comfort, long-term results, and overall quality of life. You can expect a personalized evaluation that considers your specific triggers, medical history, and lifestyle. The team uses advanced diagnostic tools to identify the exact source of your symptoms and offers treatment options designed to reduce inflammation, improve breathing, and restore daily comfort. Whether you need testing, medication guidance, or long-term allergy management, you can feel confident that your care is supported by expertise, experience, and a commitment to helping you breathe easier. You have convenient access to care in both St. Louis, MO, and Festus, MO, along with clear communication and support throughout your treatment.
Schedule a Consultation for Allergy Treatment with Dr. Gould at St. Louis Sinus Center
Want to learn more about managing your seasonal allergy symptoms and how understanding pollen can help you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gould by clicking here or calling 314-582-0888. As a board-certified otolaryngologist in Missouri, he draws from years of expertise in providing high-quality care to patients in Festus and St. Louis, MO.
As always, we are happy to answer your questions regarding allergies. To contact us, click the button below!
FAQs
How Are Seasonal Allergies Diagnosed?
Seasonal allergies are typically diagnosed through a review of your symptoms, medical history, and exposure patterns. Your provider may perform a physical exam focusing on your nose, throat, and sinuses to look for inflammation. You may also undergo skin prick testing or blood testing to identify the specific allergens affecting you. Once your triggers are confirmed, you can begin a personalized treatment plan.
What Lifestyle and Home Remedies Can You Use to Reduce Symptoms?
You can take several steps at home to lessen symptoms during high pollen seasons. Keeping windows closed, especially on dry or windy days, helps limit the amount of pollen that enters your living space. Using high efficiency air filters in your home’s ventilation system can further improve indoor air quality by capturing airborne irritants. Showering and washing your hair after spending time outdoors removes pollen that collects on your skin and clothing, reducing the chance of ongoing exposure indoors.
Changing clothes immediately after being outside helps keep allergens from spreading throughout your home. Using a humidifier when indoor air is dry may soothe irritated nasal passages and reduce discomfort, although it is important to keep the humidifier clean to prevent mold growth. You may also benefit from rinsing your nasal passages with saline to clear away allergens and reduce inflammation. When combined, these small but consistent habits help create a more comfortable environment and can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms during allergy season.
When Are the Best Times of Day and Seasons to Limit Outdoor Exposure?
Pollen counts are often high early in the morning and during warm, breezy afternoons. You may find it easier to be outdoors midday or in the early evening when levels tend to be lower. In St. Louis, tree pollen peaks in spring, grass pollen increases in late spring and summer, and weed pollen becomes more prevalent in late summer and fall. By planning around these seasonal patterns, you can minimize symptom flare ups.
How Can You Manage Traveling with Seasonal Allergies?
When you travel, you may encounter new pollens that can trigger symptoms. You can prepare by checking pollen forecasts for your destination and bringing any recommended medications. Keeping car windows closed, using air conditioning, and packing items like saline spray or a mask can help reduce irritation on the go. Allowing time for rest and staying hydrated can also support comfort while traveling.
