Phoebe pulmonologist on pollen and allergy season symptoms and treatment

ALBANY, Ga. – And, while we are enjoying the spring weather in Southwest Georgia, something has certainly felt different this year.

CBS 44’s Brian Roche has more.

There’s the old saying to stop and smell the plants, but you might not want to do it as we deal with an abnormal allergy season.

Phoebe pulmonologist, Dr. Shanti Akers says that this year’s allergy season has been impacted, thanks in part to the winter storm we saw earlier this year in January.

“I do suspect that some of the cold weather that we’ve had, that there’s been a slight delay. Usually once all the flowers are blooming and all the trees are pollinating, we tend to notice a big uptick in symptoms. But I’m sure it’s just coming given the nature of where we live,” said Dr. Shanti Akers, Pulmonary Critical Care, Phoebe.

Dr. Akers tells us that usually we’ve gotten to the start of allergy season by the end of February.

It’s mid to late March, and we’re only now starting to see the pollen show up.

“It’s typically a lot earlier in the year. I would agree with that. And, I think usually by now we’re already seeing some sinus infections. I usually will see some of my asthmatic patients starting to complain more. Asthma and allergies have a really high coincidence, so about 40% of patients with allergies will also have asthma and so typically we’re already having some flare ups as well. So, a little early yet to say if it’s going to be a good or bad season, but definitely seeing an uptick now,” said Dr. Akers.

And, while allergy season is only now starting, some pulmonology patients are trying to get out in front of things.

“I see a lot of patients who are already, you know, using their nasal steroid, starting taking their oral allergy medication and having to be a little bit more consistent with it than there may be used to in the last few weeks to months,” said Dr. Akers.

However, Dr. Akers says you shouldn’t let the pollen get in the way of enjoying the spring.

“Two months. I think, this is a great time to get outside with the weather being a little bit nicer, clear off pollen from some of the areas that they might be using frequently if they sit outside around patio furniture. It’s a good time to wash all that off,” said Dr. Akers.

Brian Roche reporting.

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