In early spring I don’t even bother washing my car; I’ve given up on the fight with the yellow-green pine pollen. Although few people are allergic to pine pollen, it’s a visible reminder of other invisible pollen that trigger allergic reactions. Thirty-five million Americans suffer through hay fever each year, but it can be an even tougher time for those with asthma.
If spring allergies increase your asthma symptoms, keep this list of springtime pollinators and allergy tips on hand to help you prepare for the worst.
| Tree | Pollination Period | Peak Pollination Count |
| Cedar | January to February | Early January |
| Elm | January to April | Early March |
| Pine | February to April | Early March |
| Oak | February to May | Late March |
| Ash | February to April | Mid February to Mid March |
| Hackberry | March | Early March |
| Pecan | April to May | Late April to Early May |
How to lessen allergy symptoms:
- Close windows and doors.
- Change clothes and shower at night to keep pollen from lingering indoors.
- Reduce time spent outdoors when pollen counts are high. Pollen counts are highest before sunrise and after sunset.
- Replace indoor air filters at home each month.
- Dry laundry inside so pollen won’t settle on clean clothes.
- See an allergist to determine which allergens affect you.
- Keep antihistamines on hand. Nasal steroid sprays and neti pots can also offer relief.
