Idaho residents who live in the Palouse, described by Idaho Public Television as "a 4,000-square-mile region of rolling, asymmetrical hills composed of loess" – a type of sediment formed when wind-blown dust accumulates – are certainly not strangers to allergies. Known for being particularly windy, this area circulates a number of allergens into the air including dust, mold and pollen.
According to regional media outlet KLEW-TV, allergy season is just starting to pick up in the region, and those who suffer from pollen allergy symptoms should be proactive in preparing for a particularly heavy level of irritants.
Dr. Sanford Ward, a Palouse ear, nose, throat and allergy specialist, told the source that pollen allergy season, which kicked off in March, began much stronger than usual and predicted that it's just going to get worse.
"When we really have a lot of problems is when the wheat crops are harvested with all the ambient dust and material in the air," Ward said. "And if there are fires to boot, we really have fun."
KLEW-TV states that pollen allergy symptoms are usually at their most debilitating mid-day, so individuals who are experiencing severe reactions are encouraged to plan their schedules around this and stay indoors when they can. Of course, there are many treatments that have been shown to combat pollen allergy symptoms, so it's a good idea to talk to a doctor about giving one of these remedies a try.
If you're looking for ways to make your home more comfortable this season, you may want to consider investing in the Honeywell HUT200 Easy-Care Cool Mist Filter Free Humidifier, which can help relieve your symptoms by adding moisture to the air.
