What is the pollen count and why does it matter for allergies?

The pollen count is measured in three main ways:

1) Pollen traps: Using specialized devices placed in targeted areas, pollen traps effectively collect airborne pollen. Inside these traps is a spindle with sticky paper wrapped around it. The spindle slowly rotates, drawing in air and capturing particles on the paper ready for counting.¹ The collected pollen is then examined under a microscope and measured per cubic meter of air. The counts are generalized into information the public can use, and forecasts are given as low, moderate or high.

2) Microscopy analysis: Microscopic analysis involves identifying and counting pollen grains collected from samples. Trained technicians use microscopy techniques to differentiate between various pollen types, allowing for accurate measurement of the pollen count for specific allergenic plants.²

3) Pollen count networks: Networks of monitoring stations across regions or countries continuously gather and report pollen count data. These networks use a range of methods, including pollen traps, to collect samples. The data is collected and analyzed, providing detailed pollen count information for different areas.³

Several factors influence the pollen count levels, including:

The pollen count fluctuates depending on the time of year. In temperate climates, tree pollen is prevalent during spring, grass pollen during summer, and weed pollen in late summer and autumn.

Various weather elements, such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and rainfall, significantly impact the pollen count. Warm, dry, and windy conditions help pollen dispersal, resulting in higher counts, while rainfall or high humidity temporarily reduces pollen levels.

Different regions have distinct vegetation patterns, leading to varying pollen types and counts. Urban areas typically have lower pollen counts due to reduced flowering plant density compared to rural or forested regions.⁴

Understanding the impact of the pollen count on allergies is crucial for individuals affected by allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and other pollen-related allergies. Key points to consider include:

Inhalation or contact with pollen can trigger an immune response in some individuals, leading to various allergic symptoms, including sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, throat irritation, and coughing.

The severity of allergic symptoms varies based on an individual’s sensitivity to different types of pollen, the pollen count levels, and the specific allergenic plants involved. Higher pollen counts worsen symptoms, emphasizing the importance of monitoring local pollen forecasts.

Knowledge of the pollen count allows you to better manage your allergies. By tracking pollen forecasts, you can plan outdoor activities on low pollen count days, keep windows closed during peak pollen times, use air purifiers when indoors, and follow appropriate prescribed medication.

Individuals with pollen-induced asthma are at risk of asthma attacks triggered by pollen exposure.⁵ High pollen counts intensify asthma symptoms, so asthma patients should be aware of local pollen counts and use prescribed treatment plans.

The pollen count measurement serves as a vital tool for individuals with pollen allergies. Understanding the pollen count, following local pollen forecasts, and avoiding exposure to pollen allows you to proactively manage your symptoms.