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These trees have ‘high’ pollen levels in Metro Detroit right now

Certain trees triggering spring allergies

This April 22, 2013 photo shows Maple trees which release a lot of wind-borne pollen while mold is produced by leaves littering the ground, In Langley, Wash. Allergies are caused by pollen from plants, trees, grasses, weeds and mold spores. (AP Photo/Dean Fosdick) (Dean Fosdick, Copyright 2013 Associated Press - All rights reserved.)

DETROIT – Some trees are releasing significant pollen throughout Metro Detroit this week, triggering allergy symptoms for many.

The arrival of spring means the arrival of uncomfortable allergy symptoms for many people. Pollen can cause sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes and the like starting in February, and lasting through May.

Allergy season may have gotten underway a bit early this year, since Michigan -- and much of the country -- experienced a warmer-than-usual winter. That warmer winter allows plants to fertilize even earlier in the spring, and to release pollen sooner than usual.

---> Why spring allergies could be stronger this year, what to do about them

That pollen is certainly circulating as of Monday, April 15. Here are the types of trees that are releasing “high” levels of pollen across Metro Detroit this week:

  • Ash trees
The Village of North Bay Tree Board tied ribbons around nearly 100 ash trees located near streets in the village area on Friday, April 25, 2008. Lynne Fiser of the Village of North Bay board, said the ash trees in the village are old and dying, and tying ribbons around those trees will show people how many could be lost in the near future if the emerald ash borer were to invade Wisconsin. (AP Photo/Journal Times, Scott Anderson) (AP2008)
  • Maple trees
Photo by Meri Sorgaard on Unsplash (Unsplash)
  • Poplar trees
Photo by Nareeta Martin on Unsplash (Unsplash)

Here’s a look at The Weather Channel’s 10-day allergy symptom forecast for Metro Detroit for April 15-25, 2024:

The Weather Channel’s 10-day allergy forecast for Metro Detroit for April 15-25. Image courtesy of The Weather Channel. (The Weather Channel)

Those affected by pollen have a high risk of experiencing allergy symptoms this week and next in the Detroit area, according to experts.

Dealing with spring allergies

With allergy season growing longer and longer every year in Metro Detroit thanks to climate change, those with spring allergies are urged to take conscious steps to help relieve or prevent symptoms.

Experts encourage people with a known history of allergies to begin their typical medications as early as they can -- about 2-4 weeks before their allergies might get triggered. Tree pollen typically becomes a problem in the early spring, while grass pollen worsens in the late spring, and ragweed pollen becomes a problem in the fall.

Some medications can take near-immediate effect, though, if you weren’t able to take allergy medicine far in advance.

People with springtime allergies are also encouraged not to open their windows when the weather is nice, in order to maintain a protective layer from the outside allergens. If spending time outside, people with allergies should change their clothes and shower when they get home to prevent pollen spread.

In general, it’s best to avoid spending a long time outdoors when allergen levels are high. If your allergy medications aren’t cutting it, or you’re getting recurring sinus infections or if the allergies are impacting your breathing, experts suggest visiting an allergist to narrow down the root cause.

People who are mixing multiple allergy medications should seek expert help to determine the best plan of action, as some allergy medications are not safe if mixed together.

---> Learn more: Tips for easing spring allergies


About the Author
Cassidy Johncox headshot

Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.

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