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