Atlanta Pollen Count Reaches High Range: What To Know, How To Get Relief

GEORGIA — Got an itchy throat, watery eyes or a runny nose today? There's a reason — for the first time this year, metro Atlanta's pollen count is at its highest so far, and allergy sufferers are paying the price.

According to Atlanta Allergy & Asthma's daily pollen and mold report, the pollen count jumped 998 percent in three days, rising from 77 on Friday to 846 on Monday. In 2021, the pollen count didn't reach a similar level until Feb. 26, and in 2020, it didn't occur until March.

Tree pollen hit the high range for the first time this year as well, while grass, weeds and mold were all in the low range for Monday's report. According to the National Allergy Bureau, the high range for tree pollen runs from 90 to 1,499.

Dr. Kevin Schaffer, an allergist with Atlanta Allergy & Asthma, told Patch that the warm temperatures from late last week and into the weekend caused trees to start releasing their pollen.

"Warming trends are causing pollen seasons to start earlier across the country," Schaffer said.

At these levels, patients with allergies, particularly to tree pollens, are likely already suffering symptoms. The top tree pollen contributors are juniper, alder, elm, pine and maple, according to Atlanta Allergy & Asthma.

"Allergy management plans for people with seasonal allergies should begin before peak pollen hits," Schaffer said. "Speak with a board-certified allergist for testing and treatment to control your symptoms, which will allow you to enjoy all that Georgia has to offer during the spring season."

According to Pollen.com's five-day allergy forecast, today's report is at a low-medium range — and Atlantans can expect a jump to medium range through Friday.

Schaffer said counts will rise with warm temperatures and fall if there's a cold front or heavy rains, as trees need warmer temperatures and moisture to release pollen.

The most common symptoms of allergies are sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat and eyes, and wheezing, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI).

It's a list people with allergies know all too well.

Here's what Atlanta Allergy & Asthma recommends for allergy symptom relief:

• Stay indoors, when possible. If you do go outside, shower when you return home to remove any pollens you've picked up.
• Check the pollen forecast and pollen counts. Take allergy medicine if necessary, ideally before symptoms start.
• Change or clean air filters regularly.
• Wash off indoor pets' paws and wipe down fur with a damp cloth or towel if they've been outdoors. Pets can track pollen inside and leave it on carpets and furniture.
• Wear sunglasses/glasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
• Avoid outdoor activity in the early morning when pollen counts are highest.
• If home remedies aren't working, schedule an appointment with your doctor.