Achoo! Pollen Counts Inching Up in Plymouth-Canton

Trees are releasing pollen, the main culprit behind southeast Michigan’s medium- to high-range pollen count. And it’s only going to get worse later in the week. (Photo by Tina Franklin via Flickr / Creative Commons)

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If high temperatures flirting with the mid-80s weren’t enough to convince you that spring has finally arrived in southeast Michigan, the rapid-fire “achoo” sounds from allergy suffering neighbor might convince you.

Yes, it’s that time of year again.

Southeast Michigan pollen counts are in the medium to high range – click the link to get the pollen forecast for your ZIP code – but will spike later in the week, according to pollen.com. If you’re sensitive to allergens, it’s a good idea to bookmark that page, but you can also track pollen counts on The Weather Channel.

There are many causes for “allergic rhinitis” – pollen, dust and animal dander – pollen released by maple, juniper, box elder, oak, mulberry, ash, birch and other trees is the main culprit behind watery eyes, nasal irritation cough and other symptoms.

The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America estimates some 35 million Americans suffer from pollen allergies. Most of the pollen is emitted in the early morning hours, just before dawn, resulting in high counts near the source of the plants.

In urban areas, counts increase around midday as pollen is carried by warm, dry, breezy days. Pollen counts are lowest during chilly, wet periods.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says the immune systems of people that people who have allergies mistake an otherwise harmless substance as an invader.

The immune system overreacts, producing Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that travel to cells that release histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. In the most serious cases, anaphylactic shock can occur.

The AAAAI offers a complete list of resources, ranging from treatment options to suggestions to help allergy sufferers continue to enjoy outdoor activities such as gardening without setting off their allergies.

Various blogs suggest a nutritional approach to allergy control. For example, the MindBodyGreen blog suggests ditching sugar, lowering dairy intake, eating more apples and garlic, introducing black seed oils (cumin, for example) into your diet, and eating more fish rich in Omega 3 fats.