Pollen in Memphis
Pollen is one of the most common causes of allergic reactions in people all over the world. According to research, Memphis has been ranked 4th worst city for allergies. The Spring season is the time when pollen allergies are at an all-time high in the city. The pollen season lasts for approximately 6 months every year affecting its larger population,
What is pollen?
Pollen is a fine powder substance produced by trees, flowers, grasses, and weeds to fertilize other plants of the same species. Anemophilous plants produce lightweight pollen that can easily travel by air currents spreading allergies in humans.
Symptoms of pollen allergies.
Many people have different immune responses when they inhale pollen. Some may have little to no reactions while some may suffer from minor to serious reactions. This is because their immune system act as if the pollen is harmful to the body which can lead to some of the symptoms of pollen allergies:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Red eyes
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Pressure on sinuses
- Decreased sense of taste or smell
- Headaches
Causes of pollen allergies
Pollen is a significant component of the air but its increased level can be extremely harmful. There are hundreds of flowers, trees, and plants spreading pollen in the air. Trees, grasses, and weeds produce dry, light, and small pollen grains which are easily suspended in the air by wind.
They can find their way into your eyes, nose, lungs, or mouth causing minor to serious problems.
Some flowering plants like Camellias, lilies, and roses do not spread pollen in the air as they have heavy and sticky pollen which travels in the environment by sticking to the animal’s bodies. Hence, they do not affect people with pollen allergies.
Some common trees which release pollen in the air and cause allergic reactions are
- Birch trees
- Oak trees
- Ragweed trees
The grass is also the primary distributor of pollen in the air. Allergy due to grass pollen, Hay fever, has affected about 20 to 40 million people in the United States among which 0.6 million are children. The most common types of grasses causing allergies are Bermuda, Johnson, Kentucky, Rye, sweet vernal, etc.
Treatment of pollen allergies
If the symptoms persist despite taking preventive measures, you should consult a doctor. He may prescribe you nasal sprays, and OTC (over-the-counter) allergy medications like antihistamines or decongestants.
Decongestants are not recommended for everyone, especially those with hypertension.
Allergy shots can also be recommended by the doctor. These shots increase your immunity against allergens and help ease the symptoms however they are not recommended for children younger than 5 years.
OnPointe Care offers the best healthcare services when it comes to limiting allergy flareups with top consultation and helping manage your allergies in a constructive manner that doesn’t limit your everyday routine.
Takeaway
Pollen allergies can be irritating. The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid coming in contact with the allergen. It is advised for allergic patients to stay indoors on dusty and dry windy days, close the windows and doors, and always wear masks while going outside.
Allergic patients can also use air purifiers and air conditioners in their houses to minimize the airborne pollen pollutants. This will also help keep other airborne irritants at bay and will avoid allergy flare-ups. Take shower before bedtime or after coming from the outdoors to rinse pollen of hair and skin.
The best way to manage allergies and other medical conditions is to have trusted medical professionals that know your family and have all conditions on record that might be hampering your daily life.
Whether you’re in Bartlett or Cordova, you can visit your nearest OnPointe Care Location today and start living your life to the fullest with help from professionals that help diagnose and treat your conditions.
