Tree pollen is a prolific allergen that can be airborne from January to late May based on climate and weather. Here are some surprising answers about this allergen that often has such devastating affects on those who suffer from springtime allergies.
1. What is tree pollen? It is the male cell of a plant needed for fertilization of the female cell and production of new trees. This cell is encapsulated by a very tough membrane to help insure that it will reach its target in tact. It is generally 2 to 100 microns in size making it quite a bit smaller than the head of a pin. Produced in staggering amounts a spoonful can include hundreds if not thousands of grains.
2. Which trees produce the greatest amounts? Male trees produce pollen, and those species that are likely to produce the most include the Ash, Box Elder, Elm, Hickory, Pecan, and Mountain Cedar. Some trees produce up to a million grains a day.
3. Are there trees that are more allergy friendly? Yes, there are. Female trees and bushes do not produce pollen, and there are even flowering trees that can be enjoyed. The female Crepe Myrtle, Dogwood, Double-flowered Cherry, Fir, Flowering Plum, Magnolia, Pear, and Yellow Poplar are all great choices for allergy friendly trees.
4. How does weather affect production? Weather can greatly affect longtime production and minute by minute conditions. A rainy fall and winter result in greater spring pollen production. A late winter storm that includes ice and snow will greatly reduce production. A mild winter followed by a warm and rainy spring will also increase production. Dry windy days result in a higher count than do days that have experienced heavy rain. Early mornings tend to yield a higher count than late mornings and afternoon.
5. Should you relocate to reduce exposure? Changing where you live to avoid allergens is not recommended. Since pollen can be blown great distances from where it originates, it is not necessarily true that your move would result in less exposure. And in many cases, many sufferers developed new allergies to allergens specific to the new location.
6. What are the best ways to manage a pollen allergy? Try to determine which pollen triggers your allergies. You may need to consult an allergist with help in determining whether it is one or a combination. Reduce your exposure to the allergen by staying indoors during early morning hours or on dry windy days. Use air conditioning in your home, office thus reducing your exposure to the outdoor air.
7. Can an air purifier help? The right air purifier can eliminate pollen from indoor air. Since pollens vary in size from 2 to 100 microns in size, it is important to use a cleaner that is designed to remove such small particles. A high efficiency particle arresting (or HEPA) air purifier removes particles as small as .3 microns, so pollen is effectively eliminate thus reducing the symptoms that it triggers.
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