Allergy season is here, and the sneezing seems never-ending. But when exactly does it peak?
"There isn't one single 'worst' time for everyone, as it really depends on what specific allergens trigger an individual's symptoms," explains board-certified allergist and immunologist Dr. Kara Wada. "However, we definitely see distinct peaks."
Research indicates that allergy seasons are becoming longer and more intense due to climate change.
"Warmer temperatures are causing earlier springs and later frosts," Wada points out. "This trend is supported by data showing increased pollen counts and extended growing seasons. Be prepared for potentially harsher allergy seasons in the future."
Learn when allergy peaks occur and how to prevent reactions according to allergy experts.
There are three distinct periods each year when different types of pollen reach their peak. Spring (March to May or June) is dominated by tree pollen, late spring and summer (May to July) feature grass pollen, and late summer and fall (August to October or November) bring weed pollens like ragweed, says Wada.
"The severity of allergies varies depending on the individual's specific allergens," notes board-certified allergist and immunologist Dr. Sakina Bajowala. "If you're allergic to multiple environmental allergens, symptoms may worsen when several allergens overlap."
May sees an overlap of tree and grass pollen, resulting in "particularly high overall pollen loads, making it a challenging month for many allergy sufferers in the U.S.," Wada mentions.
Seasonal allergies typically stop when the specific pollen or mold you're allergic to is no longer in the air, explains Wada. However, they usually return annually, Bajowala points out. In addition to seasonal allergies, there are year-round allergies triggered by dust mites, pet dander, cockroaches, indoor mold, or food allergens.
Effective management of seasonal allergy symptoms often requires a combination of approaches, Wada advises. Key tactics include: