Utah: ‘Tis The Season For Sneezing!

I never thought that I would say what I'm about to write. I kinda want to go back to winter. Of course, this winter was pretty easy to take, so I might have a distorted view here. But, based on what I was reading today from the Allergy Associates of Utah website, winter is about the only time we can escape allergies here in the Beehive State.

That's a little depressing.

Utah's unique geography and climate contribute to a particularly challenging allergy season. Or should I say seasons.

According to the Allergy Associates we have the springtime allergies which are now through May, the summertime allergies from May through July, and the fall allergies which run from July until we see frost on the ground.

The state's dry air, high elevation, and wide temperature swings create an environment where pollen, dust, and other allergens thrive.

Spring is often the most difficult time of year, as trees like cedar, elm, and cottonwood release large amounts of pollen. Later in the summer and fall, grasses and weeds—especially ragweed and sagebrush become the primary culprits.

Of course, what triggers allergies is the pollen being produced by our state trees, flowers, and vegetation. Pollen is a fine, powdery substance produced by the male parts of seed plants. It plays a vital role in plant reproduction, as it contains the microscopic grains that fertilize other plants of the same species. When pollen is released into the air, it can travel long distances, especially on windy days. This is particularly true for plants that rely on wind pollination rather than insects or animals. And we all know about the wind here in southern Utah.

For many Utahns, allergies are more than just a seasonal nuisance—they can significantly impact daily life and health. How do we deal with it? Treatments often include antihistamines, nasal sprays, and allergen immunotherapy, and if you are showing symptoms, it would probably be a good time to have a visit with you doctor.

So brace yourself for the runny noses and puffy eyes, allergy season is with us and will be here in various forms for the next several months.

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Winter is starting to sound good.