Allergy season 200 days longer now

Last decade sees big jump in duration

April showers bring May flowers, according to an adage. But for many Vancouverites, they really only bring allergies.

Allergy season has typically been short. Seasonal allergy sufferers would sniffle, sneeze and swear their way through the bloom, but in a month or two, the symptoms would generally subside.

This no longer appears to be the case. According to new data released Friday by London Drugs and aeroallergen monitoring firm Aerobiology Research Laboratories, the duration of allergy season has increased by well over half a year in the last decade.

So if you feel like allergy season has dragged on in recent years, you’re not imagining it.

In Vancouver, dock weed pollen season increased by an incredible 203 days between 2006 and 2017, while grass pollen and nettles pollen seasons have increased, respectively, by 26.4 and 22 days.

“Anyone suffering from allergies caused by weeds, grasses, trees and bushes that release pollen may experience longer allergy flare-ups with symptoms including sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat and itchy, tearing eyes,” said Gianni Del Negro, a London Drugs pharmacist.

What’s causing these extended seasons of suffering ? Climate change, mostly. According to Aerobiology Research Laboratories, the lengthier pollen season is caused by rising average temperatures around the world.

The company ’s data is the result of daily pollen collection.

Using samples from sites across Canada, the monitoring firm has been able to assess the average pollen season length, and the data shows that, in the past decade, allergy season has begun earlier, and stretched far longer into the summer than it used to.

“Increases this significant can have serious negative effects on the quality of life for allergy sufferers in Vancouver during the summer months,” said Dawn Jurgens, the company’s director of operations. “With more time for pollen to find its way into eyes, nose and throats, symptoms are experienced for longer periods.”

For allergy sufferers looking to enjoy the summer months, Del Negro said the best solution is to get proactive about fighting symptoms by seeking out anti-allergy treatments — be they antihistamines, decongestants, sinus rinses, nasal sprays or eye drops — before symptoms even begin.

Break out the Flonase at the first sign of spring, for instance.

“Instead of allowing the body to conduct an unnecessary fight against pollen in the air, you can prevent your reactions using medications,” said Del Negro.

“But it’s best to do so before allergens arrive because some medications take a few weeks to become fully effective.”

If you’re unsure as to what’s the best treatment for your allergies, Del Negro recommends speaking to a pharmacist.

“Pharmacists can help determine the best course of treatment to target specific allergens and manage your symptoms,” she said.