Slight uptick in seasonal allergies as conditions align

As of last week, there were 30 grains of grass pollen per cubic meter of air in the Mid-valley, which was consistent with measurements in the greater Sacramento Valley.

In laymen’s terms, that means there were a lot of itchy eyes, runny noses and plenty of over-the-counter allergy medicines being sold.

Sunil Perera, an allergist specialist with the Allergy Medical Group in Yuba City, said the season’s slight uptick in seasonal allergy symptoms can be attributed to rain coming at just the right time.

“Once the rain stopped, the air got warmer and all the pollen and mold lifted into the air,” Perera said. “In another couple of weeks, as temperatures reach 90-100 degrees, the grass will dry out and we should see symptoms calm down. We’re at the tail end of this season.”

Along with a heavy concentration of grass pollen, Perera said minor concentrations of pollen from olive trees, walnut trees, privet bushes and mold have only served to amplify symptoms. A steady occurrence of wind has not helped much either, said Perera.

For most people suffering from seasonal allergies, Perera recommends any of the many over-the-counter medicines, such as Allegra, Zyrtec or Claritin. Nasal inhalers, such as Flonase and Nasacort are also options he recommends.

Perera said to get the best effect from these drugs, people should self-medicate daily and not just before planning to head outside. If over-the-counter medicines are not working, Perera said consult with a doctor to see if a prescription-strength medication is needed.

For all the inconvenience a stuffed-up nose or itchy eyes can cause, a segment of