Pollens are egg-like microscopic airborne allergens that are produced by flowering trees, plants, weeds and grasses. Pollen can be very numerous and often circulates in the air and causes allergy symptoms if inhaled by a person that has allergies. Pollen is omnipresent but varies geographically due to weather extremes.

Pollen is more prevalent in the early mornings. After the dew dries, pollen springs up and is carried around by the morning breeze.

Other seasonal allergens that may also trigger an allergic reactions include:

• Molds
• Dust mites
• Animal hair and dander

There are certain pollens that do not trigger allergic reactions, especially those from white bright flowers. These pollens are waxy and are carried from plant to plant by insects like bees. However, there is other dry powdery pollen found in trees, weeds and other plants that are carried around in the atmosphere by wind currents. This type of pollen can quickly trigger an allergic reaction if inhaled. Lawn carries quite a lot of this type of pollen.

Pollen management

Pollen is numerous and therfore cannot be eliminated, but certain measures can be taken to limit exposure to it. Here are certain measures you can take to prevent your exposure to pollen, especially during pollen peak seasons:

• If you work outside, in the garden, quickly remove clothes and take a shower. Clothes may carry in a lot of pollen from outside.
  

• Keep the windows of your house or car closed during high pollen season and use air conditioners to moisten, clean and filter the air in your home and car.
  
  
• Keep the air conditioners as clean as possible. Wipe them with damp cloth to ensure that no allergens remain stuck on them.
  
  
• Try to stay indoors on windy days when allergens may easily be inhaled.
  
  
• Wear a face mask and gloves if you mow the lawn. After working or playing with kids on the lawn, take showers and change your clothes. Pollen often clings to clothes.
  
  
• Use a clothes dryer to dry your clothes rather than line dryers. Pollen is carried by the wind currents and may get stuck on your clothes.
  
  
• Pets can bring in pollen into the house. Try to keep your pets outside and wash them regularly. Also have there hair cut.
  
  
• Avoid growing too many indoor plants if you are allergic to mold and pollen since they also produce pollen. Rather replace them with artificial plants.
  
  
• Keep furniture, all rugs and drawers, as clean as possible. Use damp cloth to wipe dust off.

• Pollen may drop on carpets, vacuum your carpets regularly to eliminate other allergens such as dust mites and molds. Vacuum your carpets at least twice a week.