Skip to content

Late Summer Pollen: Potential Impact and Consequences

Strategies for Pollen Sufferers During the Late Summer Season

Impact of Late Summer Pollen: Possible Consequences Explored
Impact of Late Summer Pollen: Possible Consequences Explored

Impact of Late Summer Pollen: Coping Strategies for Sufferers - Late Summer Pollen: Potential Impact and Consequences

In the late summer months, many people experience allergic reactions due to the increased presence of pollen in the air. This year, these reactions may be more severe due to the impact of air pollutants on pollen.

One of the main culprits of late summer pollen allergies is Short Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia). This plant, which typically grows and pollinates from late summer into fall, can start flowering as early as July and continue until the first frost in September or October. Short Ragweed is highly allergenic and can cause severe allergic reactions. It is common in the Eastern and Midwestern United States, parts of the South, the Great Plains, and some moist regions of the Western U.S. It also thrives in urban and suburban disturbed soils.

Another allergen to be aware of is Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). This herb flowers from July to September, with a peak flowering period in mid-August. Mugwort is the third most common cause of pollen allergies after grasses and birch. It is native to regions such as eastern Austria and Vienna, where it causes allergic symptoms even at low concentrations. Mugwort is closely related to ragweed, contributing to similar allergy profiles.

The regions most affected by these allergens are the Eastern and Midwestern U.S., where Short Ragweed is prevalent, and Eastern Austria and related temperate zones of Europe, where Mugwort is common.

Mold spores, such as Alternaria or Cladosporium, can also cause allergies in late summer. Coughing can be triggered by the bursting of pollen particles due to rain, even in non-allergic individuals.

The pollen season has shifted earlier over the past few decades and now lasts longer due to higher temperatures. This extension can add an additional two to three weeks to the pollen season.

For those suffering from pollen allergies, it is essential to be aware of the common allergens and the regions where they are most prevalent. By understanding the sources of allergens, individuals can take steps to minimise their exposure and manage their symptoms more effectively.

  1. Many community policies should consider addressing the impact of air pollutants on the increased severity of late summer pollen allergies.
  2. Employment policies could incorporate workplace-wellness programs focused on medical-conditions such as chronic diseases and respiratory conditions caused by exposure to pollen allergens.
  3. With the growing prevalence of pollen allergies, science should explore new therapies and treatments to help those affected by allergic reactions.
  4. In the workplace, promoting fitness and exercise, health and wellness, and skin care could help employees cope with the effects of pollen allergies.
  5. Mental health resources should be made available for individuals struggling with the physical and emotional effects of pollen allergies, including sleep disturbances.
  6. Given the negative impact of climate change on the pollen season, environmental science should continue to study the effects of increased temperatures on pollen pollution and allergy seasons.
  7. Nutrition plays an important role in managing pollen allergies; understanding proper nutrition can help individuals boost their immunity and better cope with exposure to pollen allergens.

Read also:

    Latest