The amount of pollen and the length of time it stays in the air has risen significantly over the last 11 years in Kelowna, resulting in longer more severe allergy seasons in the city.
New data from Aerobiology Research Laboratories shows that between 2006 and 2017 Kelowna cedar pollen season increased by 119, while ash pollen and nettles pollen seasons have increased by 58.8 and 23 days respectively.
“Anyone suffering from allergies caused by weeds, grasses, trees and bushes that release pollen may experience longer allergy flare-ups with symptoms including sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat and itchy, tearing eyes,” says Kelowna London Drugs Pharmacist, Zach Stevens.
Stevens says that taking allergy medication proactively, before symptoms begin, is the best way to prevent them. There are a few natural preventatives too. “Keeping your windows closed, having an air purifier, changing your bedding frequently. That helps you when you’re inside. When you’re outside there’s only so much you can do other than minimize the time that you’re spending outside.”
According to Aerobiology Research Laboratories, the lengthening pollen season is caused by rising average temperatures. The company collects pollen samples daily at collection sites across Canada and looks at the top pollens present in each city, assessing the average pollen season length.