Did you know that Richmond ranks as the No. 8 most challenging place to live with allergies in the U.S., according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America?
In recent days, you’ve probably noticed a yellow coat of pollen on your car windshield in the morning. Like the past few years, pollen season has got an early start.
Tree pollen is typically the first allergen to emerge in the spring. The pollen of trees like oak, maple + pine can cause symptoms like red and watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
Pollen breakdown
- What is it anyway? It is a fine to coarse powder containing the reproductive cells of seed plants.
- Tree pollen peaks in spring, followed by grass pollen in the summer and ragweed pollen in the fall.
- Rain + warm weather will increase pollination levels.
- According to Pollen.com, the top pollen allergies in our area are maple, juniper + birch.
Allergy tips
- Pollen counts are typically highest between 5-10 a.m., so plan your outdoor excursions accordingly.
- Keep your home + car windows closed.
- Be sure to bathe your outdoor pets as their fur attracts pollen.
- Run your air conditioner or fans to keep air circulating.
- Take your shoes off at the door to avoid tracking allergens inside.
- Change, shower, and wash clothes immediately after outdoor excursions.
- Consider taking over-the-country remedies.
Some days are better than others when it comes to allergies — you can still get outside and enjoy a beautiful RVA spring. Be sure to check the daily Allergy Tracker to keep up with daily pollen counts.
