Is the pollen count high in Youngstown Ohio yet? Here’s what to expect in coming days
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Winter weather is still sticking around in Youngstown, with rain and snow in the forecast for this week. However, spring is right around the corner and with it comes a yellow dusting.
Pollen might not be too high right now since there are still wintry mixes, but is it around at all? If so, what is the current pollen count and when is it expected to be the highest? Here’s what to know:
How high is the pollen count in Youngstown right now?
According to Mallory Logsdon, physician assistant: “Pollen season in Ohio typically starts in February and ends in November. This aligns with the seasonal patterns of pollen release from trees, grasses, and weeds.”
Closer to May and June, grass pollen comes out and towards August, weed pollen is in the air. Weed pollen is the biggest trigger of allergies in Ohio.
So, is pollen high right now? Let’s take a look:
Here’s a five-day pollen count outlook from Pollen.com:
- Mar. 12: 2.9 (low-medium)
- Mar. 13: 2 (low)
- Mar. 14: 3.7 (low-medium)
- Mar. 15: 4.7 (low-medium)
- Mar. 16: 4.3 (low-medium)
For reference, a low pollen count would be around 0-2 to 4 and a low to medium pollen count is around 2.5 to 4.8.
The highest point on the scale is set at 12.
How to prevent and treat spring allergies
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), you may have a pollen allergy if you experience these symptoms during this time of year:
- Runny nose (also known as rhinorrhea – this is typically a clear, thin nasal discharge)
- Stuffy nose (due to blockage or nasal congestion – one of the most common and troublesome symptoms)
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose, eyes, ears and mouth
- Red and watery eyes
- Swelling around the eyes
To prevent or treat these allergies:
- Start taking allergy medicines before your symptoms appear or before pollen season begins. This way, the medicine is already in your system and working before you come in contact with these allergens.
- Limit outdoor time when the pollen count is high.
- Keep windows closed during peak pollen season.
- Wear sunglasses and cover your hair when going outside. This will help keep pollen out of your eyes and off your hair.
- Shower daily before going to bed. This will remove pollen from your body and keep it off your bedding.
- Wash bedding in hot, soapy water once a week. Likewise, change or wash your clothes after time outside and don’t use an outside clothes line (use an indoor dryer).
- Limit close contact with pets that spend a lot of time outdoors. Wipe furry animals off when they come inside or bathe them weekly.
- Watch pollen counts and forecasts.
How are you dealing with pollen and spring allergies? Send us your tips. Comment below or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
