If you sniffle, sneeze, and cough when walking through grassy fields or after simply taking a step outside, you may be one of many pollen allergy sufferers. To help curb your symptoms, it can be useful to check the pollen forecast each day. If you’re not sure what these figures mean, the experts from Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D., in West Chester, OH, will explain what to know.

Pollen Allergies 101: How to Read the Forecast

Most likely, you’ve heard the pollen count read by your local TV news reporter or have seen it online. Typically, the count will describe the levels of tree pollen, weed pollen, and grass pollen in the air on a scale from “low” to “high.” Sometimes, more in-depth details will be provided, such as oak tree and ragweed pollen counts.

Pollen counters sit on top of buildings to collect air samples for these readings. These counters may attract pollen with petroleum jelly or another substance, so it sticks to the slide. After, a pollen identification expert examines the slide under a microscope. Based on this sample, the expert determines the amount of each type of pollen present in the air. This sample is used as an estimate for the local atmosphere at large.

Meanwhile, pollen levels: low, medium, and high, are typically reported based on averages from over the years. These levels are relative estimates for the real amount circulating on any given day.

It’s natural to assume that “high” pollen levels will lead to increased symptoms, but that’s not always true. Pollen counts can vary drastically based on the time of day, for example, though the report does not account for this. Furthermore, many pollen allergy sufferers react stronger to specific varieties and exhibit varying symptoms.

Seek Relief Today

Pollen counts are most useful when you know which specific types you are allergic to. If you’re interested in finding out, contact an experienced allergist. Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D. provides allergy testing and treatments to help you find relief. Call the practice today at (513) 777-7097, or visit the website to learn more.