by Dan Dalan, MD
MercyOne Waterloo ENT/Allergy Care and MercyOne Cedar Falls Allergy Care
At the turn of the last century, physicians were looking for the cause of hay fever, summer colds, or rose fever. They soon discovered billions of invisible pollens trigger allergy symptoms. Using technology and microscopy, they visualized plant pollens from tree, grass and weeds and concluded these were the culprits!
Midwest allergy season
In Iowa during springtime, trees are actively pollinating, even as the snow is melting. Pollens abound before the tree leaves are visible.
In 2021, it started in February, and we peak around April and May as mulberry, hickory, oak and birch bud out of the trees as the temperature and winds increase.
Depending on where you live, there are generally three pollen seasons. The start and end dates of these seasons, as well as the specific plants, vary based on the climate.
- Trees generally pollinate in the spring.
- Grass releases its pollen in the summer. Timothy and Johnson, and Rye grasses are examples of allergens in this category. Grass seeds out.
- Weeds cause hay fever in the fall. Ragweed is the biggest offender as it can grow in nearly every environment.
- Harvest mixes mold spores, ragweed, nettle, sage, and pigweed until it snows next winter.
Hay fever symptoms
Initial symptoms include:
- Itching nose, mouth and eyes leading to sneezing.
- Nasal congestion.
- Tearing of the eyes.
Hay fever can lead to sinus infections, make asthma worse, disrupt your sleep and affect your ability to learn at school or be productive at work. Allergists can help pinpoint the actual cause and diagnosis with skin testing.
Get rid of allergy symptoms fast!
Allergy care
- Try not to rub your eyes.
- Rinse or shower as soon as you can.
- Take antihistamines and nasal steroids.
- Talk to your primary care provider about allergy shots.
Avoiding your allergy triggers is the best way to reduce symptoms:
- Limit outdoor activities during days with high pollen counts, typically late morning.
- Keep windows closed (at home or in the car) to keep pollens out.
If you experience allergies or have symptoms contact your provider or find one near you to make an appointment.
