Long Island Allergy Sufferers Brace for Summer

Allergy sufferers on Long Island, it turns out the spring was as tough as you anticipated. And now, summer is just around the corner.

This weekend marks a rise in both tree and grass pollen as the seasons shift into longer, warmer days.

Erin McGintee, an allergist and immunologist from ENT and Allergy Associates in Southampton, noted that this spring was particularly challenging because the blooming didn’t happen gradually. The harsh winter delayed the early-blooming trees, while the later ones jumped into action as soon as temperatures rose.

“When we have a really cold winter followed by an early spring, everything sort of bursts out at once,” she explained. “For those allergic to tree pollen, that can be really tough. Plus, grass season kicks off in May, so it’s like a double whammy.”

This translates to more folks dealing with runny noses, itchy eyes, and sneezing fits.

The tree pollen season typically starts in February, lasts through April, and rolls into May. Grass pollen spikes in May and continues into June, followed by the initial weed pollen days come August.

In March, experts had already warned that this would be an “intense tree pollen season,” citing the heavy snow and rain over the winter.

Generally, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, grass pollen seasons are lasting longer and are becoming increasingly severe. Common grass types that trigger allergies include Bermuda, fescue, Kentucky blue, rye, and sweet vernal grass.

Climate change and rising carbon dioxide levels are extending growing seasons and leading to more grass pollen, the organization added.

McGintee mentioned, “There hasn’t been much rain lately, so there’s nothing to help bring the pollen levels down. Those suffering from grass pollen allergies will probably feel miserable for the next couple of months.”

Dr. Susan Schuval, who leads the pediatric allergy/immunology division at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, observed an uptick in allergy symptoms, especially among young children this year.

“Symptoms haven’t really improved with standard allergy medications,” she noted, even as tree pollen is expected to decrease in the coming months.

Fortunately, there are many effective over-the-counter antihistamines and prescription options available that can be tailored to individual needs.

It’s wise for individuals to consult with an expert, identify their allergies, and ideally start medications or sprays before symptoms set in.

Those with asthma should take extra precautions, as pollen can worsen their condition.

“Pay attention to the pollen counts daily,” Schuval advised. “They tend to peak in the mornings, so if you need to be outdoors, try to plan for later in the day.”

Additionally, keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can help keep pollen out of homes. When coming indoors, showering to wash off pollen from skin and hair is also recommended.

“Don’t forget about pets; they can bring pollen into the house too,” she added. “So if you have a dog sleeping in bed with you, you might be exposing yourself to even more pollen.”