High tree pollen levels mark the onset of allergy season in South Carolina. Experts advise early preparation to lessen symptoms.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — High to very high levels of tree pollen are expected through the weekend, signaling the start of another difficult allergy season for many people across South Carolina.
If you’ve noticed a layer of yellow pollen coating your car or found yourself sneezing more than usual, doctors say you’re not alone.
“Right now, my car is covered in so much pollen. It’s so bad. My tonsils are swollen. Like it’s to the point where it’s already getting so bad, sneezing. Coughing. It’s so bad. Even in my sleep, I sneeze and cough,” said Aaliyah Bull, a Columbia resident.
Doctors say pollen season in South Carolina typically begins in mid- to late February and peaks in early March as trees begin blooming.
Dr. Maria Streck, an allergy immunology clinical instructor at the Medical University of South Carolina, says one of the best ways to handle seasonal allergies is to prepare before pollen levels reach their highest point.
“So we always tell people like, if, you know, every year is going to be bad to prepping at a time, starting your medicines ahead of time is what you can do to prepare,” Streck said.
According to Streck, tree pollen is usually the biggest trigger for spring allergies in the region.
“Tree pollen this time of year is a big deal. And then certain trees that we have here that really affect people, the one that comes in kind of early and comes in hard is pine,” she said.
The pollen affecting allergy sufferers may not always come from nearby trees.
“It’s not necessarily even like what’s right here in our city. It’s what’s blowing in from, you know, up to one hundred or so miles away that can affect you,” Streck said.
To reduce symptoms when pollen counts are high, doctors recommend limiting exposure. Simple steps can include keeping windows closed, avoiding driving with car windows down and removing shoes at the door to keep pollen from being tracked inside.
“Keep the doors and windows shut, don’t drive with your window down, take your shoes off at the door so you don’t track the pollen into your house,” Streck said.
Doctors also recommend showering after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your hair and clothing.
If over-the-counter allergy medications aren’t helping, experts say it may be time to see an allergist to determine what’s triggering symptoms and discuss possible treatments.
Allergists also note that pollen levels can change daily depending on weather conditions, especially wind and storms, so checking local pollen forecasts may help people with seasonal allergies plan ahead.
