AUSTIN, Texas — It's no secret that we have had elevated allergy levels this week in Central Texas.
A lot of it has to do with the heavy rain we experienced this past summer, with Camp Mabry already receiving around the average rainfall total for the year to date. The Austin airport is running more than 2.5 inches above its average at the same point.
Dr. Allen Lieberman, an allergy specialist at Austin Family Allergy & Asthma, said this could lead to heightened fall allergens, such as fall elm and ragweed.
"This year, I think the plants are looking healthier because we didn’t have that intense heat," Lieberman said. "We had a little bit more rain than last year.”
While Lieberman also said that rainfall before allergy season may play a role in allergen prevalence, he also mentioned that rainfall during the season can limit allergens as well.
“When you do get some moisture and precipitation during the season, it will give people a little bit of a reprieve for a while,” Lieberman said.
As for ways to help with heightened allergy counts, Lieberman said that you should make changes to your plans to account for them. He also mentioned being prepared if you already have outdoor plans, such as Texas football games.
“If the trends are going up and you’re very allergic, maybe do an indoor activity,” Lieberman said. "If you are going out to the UT football game ... plan ahead. Take allergy medications and maybe not stay the whole game.”
As for when to take medications, Lieberman suggested that they be taken consistently, not just when allergy symptoms are present. This is especially true for people with asthma.
"Medications work best when you use them day in and day out," Lieberman said. "If they're not on their asthma medication and the pollen count goes way up, they could have a significant asthma exacerbation."