Your Yearly Allergy Calendar

Some things in life are inevitable. From paying taxes to getting your oil changed, some situations can’t be avoided.

The same can be said about your allergies. You might find yourself faring better during one part of the year, but could your symptoms spring up in the summer or winter?

Can allergies happen at any time of year?

Allergy symptoms can occur at any time of year. However, the severity of your symptoms can depend on the specific allergens you react to and how prevalent they are during a particular season.

As Dr. Isaac Dingle, an ENT and allergy specialist at CEENTA Pineville, explains, "The Charlotte area is known for intense seasonal allergen fluctuations”

What allergies can I expect during each season?

Each season carries its own unique allergens, which can be compounded by indoor allergens which can be present all year.

Fall

Fall is commonly associated with ragweed pollen in the Charlotte area. This allergen begins to appear in mid-August, peaks during the fall months, and remains present until the beginning of winter.

With so many outdoor activities happening at this time of year, your chances of encountering ragweed pollen are high.

Winter

A common misconception is that the winter months mean no allergies due to the cold weather and increased time spent indoors. While you will tend to avoid ragweed and pollen during the winter, you may find yourself sniffling and sneezing because of pet dander, dust, and mold.

To determine whether your symptoms are caused by allergies or a seasonal cold, it's important to schedule an allergy test for confirmation.

“An allergy test can help you plan when to use medications and whether immunotherapy with allergy shots or drops would be beneficial,” says Dr. Dingle.

Spring

Spring is another heavy-hitter for allergies, as tree pollen dominates the landscape from early February through May. Even if you make a conscious effort to avoid walking through parks or standing under oak trees, the wind can carry pollen for miles.

Summer

The Charlotte area is also known for grass pollen, especially Bermuda and Timothy grass pollen. These allergens emerge in May and can persist until August. Yardwork and home maintenance can increase your exposure.

How can CEENTA treat my seasonal and yearly allergies?

Even though allergens are all around you, treatment options are closer than you think. CEENTA's board-certified ENT physicians can identify what's causing your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.

The best part: You can even start treatment ahead of allergy season to get ahead of the itchy eyes, sniffling, and sneezing that stop you in your tracks.

To get started, schedule your same-day allergy appointment with Dr. Dingle at CEENTA Pineville online or through myCEENTAchart.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.