Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Monday, February 20, 2012
(INDIANAPOLIS) - While Hoosiers may enjoy this year’s mild winter, the above-average temperatures could mean a longer allergy season in the months ahead.
Medical experts said they expect allergy season to begin a month earlier than usual.
Freezing temperatures and snow often keep allergy triggers such as dander and mold at bay, but because this year's conditions are warmer, allergy sufferers may find themselves sniffling and sneezing more frequently,
Indianapolis allergist Dr. Pinkus Goldberg said he's seen an increase in patients with similar problems as the mild and wet winter continues.
"If there is no snow on the ground and it's not very cold, the grass should start blooming," Goldberg said.
Allergy symptoms that usually pop up at the end of April could be in full swing by the last week of March.
"Usually it's quiet in February. There's just snow on the ground and allergens aren't as busy when there is snow on the ground. But this year, January is very busy and many patients with chronic sinus problems or increasing asthma have problems because of the mold," Goldberg said.
Doctors advised allergy sufferers to try to suppress symptoms sooner than later.
"Do whatever you do when the Spring is coming. Just anticipate it will be an earlier spring, unless the weather patterns change drastically," Goldberg said.
1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com
© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.