Spring is blooming, and so are allergies. What to expect this season

Spring’s Arrival and the Onset of Allergy Season

As the snow melts and the first buds of spring begin to emerge, many Canadians are eager to bid farewell to the cold winter months. However, for those who suffer from seasonal allergies, the warmer weather brings a less welcome companion: the return of sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. Thursday, March 20, marks the official start of spring, a time when melting snow releases mould spores and trees begin to bloom, unleashing pollen into the air. This combination of factors signals the beginning of allergy season, a period that can be particularly challenging for the millions of Canadians who struggle with respiratory allergies.

According to Dr. Birinder Narang, a family physician, allergy season is now in full swing, with pollen counts rising and symptoms starting to appear. "Allergy season is creeping up, pollen count is going up, and people are starting to display their yearly symptoms," he explained. The overlap between the tail end of cold and flu season and the start of allergy season can make it difficult to determine whether symptoms are caused by a virus or allergies. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for effective management and relief.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies and the Challenge of Diagnosis

The symptoms of seasonal allergies can be quite similar to those of a cold or flu, making it challenging to pinpoint the cause. Common symptoms of seasonal allergies include sneezing, an itchy nose and throat, nasal congestion, a runny nose, coughing, and watery, itchy, and reddened eyes. "Sometimes it can be pretty difficult to tell if it’s a virus, like a cold or allergies… A cough can be from a cold but if someone has allergies or asthma that could be from that," Narang explained. "Stuffy nose or runny nose could be either, feeling run down or tired could be either."

However, there are some key differences between allergies and viral infections. For instance, a sore throat is typically not a symptom of seasonal allergies, and itchy eyes are usually more associated with allergies than with colds, unless the cold is accompanied by conjunctivitis. These distinctions can help individuals better understand their symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.

For those who find themselves battling seasonal allergies, it’s important to know that they are not alone. According to Asthma Canada, approximately one in five Canadians suffers from respiratory allergies, such as hay fever. Understanding the causes and triggers of these allergies is the first step toward managing symptoms effectively.

The Primary Offenders: Pollen and Mould

Seasonal allergies in Canada follow a predictable pattern, with different allergens dominating at different times of the year. In the spring, tree pollen is the primary culprit, followed by grass pollen in the summer and ragweed in the fall. The main tree pollen offenders in Canada include birch, alder, oak, maple, and cedar. These trees release large amounts of pollen during their blooming seasons, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Daniel Coates, director of Aerobiology Research Laboratories, explained that the impact of pollen can vary significantly depending on the individual. "Pollen is a very personal thing, so some people will react at low levels, where others react only at high levels, and some will react to alder but not birch." This variability highlights the importance of understanding personal triggers and sensitivity levels when managing allergies.

In addition to pollen, mould spores also play a role in seasonal allergies, particularly as snow melts. "The snow melt will trigger snow mould, it’ll trigger spores," Coates noted. These spores are often found in high-forested areas and can cause significant discomfort for those who are sensitive to them. While mould spores are a concern, pollen season is also ramping up, with varying levels of pollen reported across different regions of Canada.

Regional Variations in Allergy Seasons Across Canada

The timing and intensity of allergy seasons can vary significantly depending on the region. In British Columbia, pollen season has been ongoing for about a month and a half, with cedar and alder pollen dominating in areas like Vancouver and Victoria. However, Coates noted that the season started a bit slower this year due to cooler weather in January. "Around February [pollen] started picking up, mainly with cedar and alder. We’re seeing high to very high levels of cedar in the Vancouver, Victoria area, but not so much in the rest of British Columbia," he said.

In other parts of the country, such as the Prairies, pollen season is still in its early stages. Coates explained that the region is running a bit behind British Columbia, with only a little tree dust present so far. As temperatures rise, pollen levels are expected to increase, but peak season is still a few weeks away. In Ontario, pollen levels are currently low, with maple, cedar, poplar, and elm pollen being the primary culprits. Coates predicts that these levels will remain relatively consistent in the coming weeks, with allergy season expected to ramp up in early April.

On the East Coast, pollen season has already made an appearance in some areas, with warmer weather leading to an early start in regions like Ottawa. However, allergy sufferers don’t need to worry just yet – the season is expected to follow its usual pattern, with pollen levels increasing significantly in early April.

The Impact of Climate Change on Allergy Seasons

In recent years, there has been a noticeable change in the duration and intensity of allergy seasons across Canada. Coates explained that climate change has played a significant role in these shifts, with warmer temperatures leading to longer and more severe pollen seasons. "When you get the warm weather, you get the pollen. And nowadays, now that we have longer seasons of warm weather, you’re seeing more pollen distributed over a longer period of time and sometimes in higher concentrations as well," he said.

This trend has been particularly evident over the past 25 years, with pollen levels increasing dramatically in many parts of the country. The longer and warmer seasons have allowed pollen to linger in the air for extended periods, exacerbating symptoms for those with allergies. This shift underscores the importance of effective management strategies to help individuals cope with the challenges posed by seasonal allergies.

Managing and Relieving Symptoms

For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, managing symptoms effectively is crucial for maintaining quality of life. The first step is identifying the specific triggers, whether they are pollen, mould, or other allergens. Testing can help pinpoint the cause, allowing individuals to take targeted steps to avoid exposure. For example, keeping windows and doors closed during peak pollen hours and using HEPA filters can help reduce indoor exposure to allergens.

When it comes to relief, there are a variety of options available. Sinus rinses, such as those using neti pots or squeeze bottles, can help clear out mucus and alleviate congestion. Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Narang recommends choosing non-sedating options to avoid drowsiness during the day. Decongestants can also provide relief by reducing nasal congestion, but they should be used sparingly to avoid rebound congestion.

In more severe cases, doctors may recommend nasal corticosteroids or allergy shots for long-term management. These options can provide sustained relief and help reduce the overall impact of seasonal allergies. By combining these strategies, individuals can better navigate the challenges of allergy season and enjoy the beauty of spring without discomfort.