Pollen allergy symptoms have been plaguing individuals across the United States during what is being touted as one of the worst allergy seasons in years. This is due to a number of factors that experts say may include increased levels of carbon monoxide and climate conditions.
As the weekend approaches, people who reside in the Chicago area – who have undoubtedly already been suffering from an abundance of allergens this year – are being warned of what one doctor is calling a "tsunami" of incoming pollen.
"This is a pollen tsunami and those with sensitive respiratory systems need to keep the windows closed despite the beautiful, sunny weather," Loyola University Health System's Dr. Joseph Leija said in a statement on May 20. "The warm, humid temperatures over the weekend served as an incubator for mold, grass, weeds and trees and this is the highest count of the 2013 reporting season."
Leija recommends that allergy sufferers run an air conditioner, wash their hair before bed and use a sterile saline solution to rinse their nasal passages to help them feel better.
If your pollen allergy symptoms are making it difficult for you to enjoy the spring weather, it's in your best interest to speak with your doctor about potential treatments that could significantly improve your quality of life. Additionally, there are products you can invest in that make your home more comfortable. The Honeywell HFD-112 QuietClean Tower Air Purifier, for example, is a sleek device that captures allergens such as pollen, pet dander and dust to ensure that you aren't breathing them in. It also comes with a permanent filter that you'll never need to worry about replacing.
