Can a Rainless Winter Exacerbate Seasonal Allergies?

Experiencing seasonal allergies earlier than ever this year? You’re not alone. California has been beset by an epidemic of premature allergy symptoms, and scientists believe they have found the reason why.

Blame it on the rain.

As this piece points out, cycles of reduced rainfall can accelerate the pollen producing stages of local plants, leading to increased levels of particulates in the air. Yes, even in February:

The lack of significant rainfall has left Bay Area residents reaching for the tissue. Spring officially arrives on March 20 (35 days away), but people around the Bay Area are already suffering with Seasonal Allergies. Trees are pollinating and people are miserable. It is believed approximately 40 million Americans have aggressive reactions to high pollen counts.

That’s the bad news. Here’s worse:

And just because the allergy season is beginning sooner, don’t think it will end sooner. As of today, it is the Alder, Birch and Juniper pollen counts which are escalating. In April, the Oak pollen count comes into play, and in the month of May it is the Grasses which cause discomfort.

Basically you are in for a long slog, and that means it’s wise to figure out today which allergies are causing you distress. Contact my practice today for allergy testing so that you can begin to zero in on the biggest culprits, and find some medical solutions that’ll have you breathing easier through the summer.