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| How
Weather Affects Allergies A look at the past, present and future By Donald W. Pulver, MD, FAAAAI Have you been wondering whether your area will have a heavy pollen season this spring? Like you, not even scientists who have computer mathematical models incorporating years of pollen and meteorological data, will know what this year’s pollen season will be like. In fact, no one can accurately forecast pollen potential. Mother Nature is in total control. There are many factors that affect pollen levels and these factors vary from year to year. Since no one can predict future weather trends or the factors that affect pollen accurately (such as soil temperatures, number of days above 55 degrees, duration of freezing temperatures throughout the winter and moisture levels), it is difficult to determine the severity of spring allergy season. Relying on up-to-the-minute, proven, standardized and quality controlled data from AAAAI National Allergy Bureau (NAB) is so important. The AAAAI Aeroallergen Network is a system of pollen and spore counting stations staffed by AAAAI member volunteers who generously donate their time and expertise. The NAB currently provides the most accurate and reliable pollen and mold counts from approximately 84 counting stations throughout the United States and 4 counting stations in Canada. The stations use state-of-the-art air sampling equipment to collect airborne pollen and spores for research to aid in the diagnosis, treatment and management of allergic diseases. The pollen information listed on the site is as close to real time as possible, often within hours to 24 hours of actual occurrence. Sometimes there are unusual weather patterns that do lead us to believe that pollen levels will be worse than previous years. The following example demonstrates how severe weather disturbances have an effect on pollen levels:
The example listed above reflects an abnormal
weather phenomenon; nevertheless it demonstrates how weather can affect
pollen levels. As spring arrives in your area this year, please visit the
AAAAI Web site for patient education materials that will help you learn to
manage your symptoms. And don’t forget to stay up-to-date with the latest
pollen levels by visiting
www.aaaai.org/nab for pollen and mold counts. Above all, be sure to
visit your allergist for the latest treatment options. If you are not seeing
an allergist and would like to locate one in your community, please visit
the Academy’s Physician Referral Directory and
enter your zip code for a complete listing of allergists. |
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