Allergy season can be a frustrating time for many people, bringing sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and other bothersome symptoms. But when exactly does allergy season start? The answer depends on several factors, including your location, climate, and the specific allergens that trigger your symptoms. At Premier Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Care, we often help patients understand when they can expect seasonal allergies to begin and how to prepare for them. Let’s take a closer look at when allergy season starts and what you can do to stay ahead of your symptoms.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens like pollen. These allergies are typically tied to different times of the year, depending on which plants are releasing pollen into the air. The most common seasonal allergens include:
-
Tree pollen (early spring)
-
Grass pollen (late spring to early summer)
-
Weed pollen (late summer to fall)
-
Mold spores (can be present year-round but peak in warm, damp conditions)
When Does Allergy Season Start?
The timing of allergy season varies based on geographic location and climate conditions. However, here’s a general breakdown of when seasonal allergies typically begin:
Spring Allergies: February – June
Spring is often the worst season for allergy sufferers because of tree pollen. In many areas, tree pollen season can start as early as late February and last through June. Some of the most common tree allergens include oak, maple, birch, and cedar. If you start experiencing sneezing and congestion in early spring, tree pollen is likely to blame.
Summer Allergies: May – July
As tree pollen levels begin to drop, grass pollen becomes the main trigger for allergies in the summer months. Grass pollen is especially problematic from May through July, though it can linger longer in some regions. Common grasses that cause allergies include Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and Kentucky bluegrass.
Fall Allergies: August – November
Ragweed is the most notorious fall allergen, with pollen levels peaking from late August to November. Just one ragweed plant can release millions of pollen grains, which can travel for hundreds of miles in the wind. Other weeds, such as sagebrush and pigweed, also contribute to fall allergies.
Winter Allergies: Year-Round Indoor Triggers
While outdoor pollen levels tend to drop in winter, indoor allergens can still cause symptoms. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and cockroach droppings are common winter allergens. People who suffer from perennial allergic rhinitis may experience symptoms year-round due to indoor triggers.
Regional Differences in Allergy Season
The start of allergy season depends heavily on where you live. Here’s how it can vary across different regions:
-
Northeast & Midwest: Cold winters delay the start of pollen season, but it arrives quickly in the spring, often beginning in March or April.
-
Southeast: Milder winters mean allergy season can start as early as January or February, with tree pollen appearing sooner than in colder climates.
-
West Coast: Coastal regions may experience a more extended allergy season due to a mix of tree, grass, and weed pollens that persist for longer periods.
-
Southwest: Dry, windy conditions can lead to year-round allergies with spikes in spring and fall.
In Illinois, allergy season typically begins in March, when tree pollen starts to increase as temperatures rise. Oak, maple, and birch trees are some of the most common culprits during the early spring months. By May and June, grass pollen becomes more dominant, triggering symptoms for many allergy sufferers. Ragweed season in Illinois starts in late August and can last until the first frost in November, making fall another challenging period for those with allergies. Additionally, mold spores can be a persistent issue due to the state’s humidity and frequent rainfall.
Factors That Influence Allergy Season Start Dates
Several environmental factors can cause allergy season to start earlier or last longer than expected:
1. Warmer Winters: Mild winters can cause trees and plants to start pollinating earlier than usual.
2. Climate Change: Rising temperatures and increased CO2 levels are leading to longer and more intense allergy seasons.
3. Rainfall: A wet spring can lead to more plant growth, increasing pollen levels later in the season.
4. Windy Conditions: Wind helps spread pollen over large distances, making allergy symptoms worse.
How to Prepare for Allergy Season
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, preparation is key to minimizing your symptoms. Here are some steps you can take:
-
Check Pollen Counts: Monitor local pollen forecasts using apps or weather websites to know when levels are high.
-
Start Medications Early: Begin taking antihistamines or nasal sprays a few weeks before your allergy season starts.
-
Limit Outdoor Exposure: Stay indoors on high-pollen days, especially in the morning when pollen counts are highest.
-
Keep Windows Closed: Use air conditioning instead of opening windows to keep pollen out of your home.
-
Shower and Change Clothes: After spending time outdoors, wash off pollen to prevent it from spreading inside your home.
-
Use HEPA Filters: Air purifiers and HVAC filters can help reduce indoor allergens.
-
Consult an Allergist: If allergies are severe, an allergist can perform tests and recommend treatments like allergy shots (immunotherapy).
So, when does allergy season start? The answer depends on where you live and what allergens trigger your symptoms. In general, spring allergies can start as early as February, summer allergies peak in May through July, fall allergies begin in August, and winter allergies are often triggered by indoor allergens.
By understanding your allergy triggers and preparing in advance, you can reduce your symptoms and enjoy the seasons with less discomfort. If you’re struggling with allergies, don’t hesitate to reach out to an allergist for expert advice and personalized treatment options.
Stay ahead of allergy season and breathe easier!