JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —
Living in the Sunshine State can be a never ending allergy season for some.
Research shows that while Florida may be the perfect environment for plants, flowers and trees, without colder weather, pollen from grass, trees and weeds can aggravate allergies. Seasonal allergies can also be worse for those suffering from asthma and COPD.
According to Dr. Aimee Pragle, Family Medicine Physician Assistant from UF Health’s Murray Hill Clinic, while allergy season varies for each individual, Florida’s season can begin as early as November or December, pick up in January and February, become “high range” in April and March and become worse during Florida’s rainy season.
“We think of rain bringing relief to seasonal allergies but actually pollen grains get carried and are even worse right after a rain storm,” she said.
She added the while Florida’s Oak, Maple, Pine and Elm, trees, are “beautiful,” the tree’s floating yellow pollen aggravates symptoms that include brain fog, a runny nose, congestion, post nasal drip, ear pain, sneezing, headaches, itchy, red and water eyes, eye bags and puffiness.
Dr. Pragle also advised to “proactively” managing symptoms by frequently changing indoor air filters and taking over the counter medications, nasal sprays and antihistamines. She underscored the importance of consulting a physician before taking any medications, especially for those diagnosed with underlying conditions.
“Because some over the counter meds can increase your blood pressure, I would strongly recommend seeing an allergist where you can find out specifically what pollen you’re allergic to.”
Dr. Pragle suggested that allergy sufferers check the website pollen.com which provides a daily National Allergy Map. Simply insert your zip code to see area allergy levels and pollen count forecasts.
“On the website, you can see that JAX is in the middle level most of the year where seasonal allergies can really flare,” she concluded.