Alberta's allergy season increased by almost 100 days since 2006

If your allergy symptoms seem to be sticking around slightly longer these days, there’s a reason for that.

Allergy season in Calgary has increased by as much as 100 days – or more than three months – over the last 11 years, according to the results of a study released today.

The findings come from research done by London Drugs, along with aeroallergen monitoring firm, Aerobiology Research Laboratories.

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“Anyone suffering from allergies caused by weeds, grasses, trees, and bushes that release pollen may experience longer allergy flare-ups with symptoms including sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat and itchy, tearing eyes,” said London Drugs Pharmacist, Agusia McGrath.

Taking allergy medication proactively, before the allergy symptoms start, is the best way to prevent, McGrath added.

“Instead of allowing the body to conduct an unnecessary fight against pollen in the air, you can prevent your reactions using medications,” he said. “But it’s best to do so before allergens arrive because some medications take a few weeks to become fully effective.”

Rising temperatures, longer season

According to Aerobiology Research Laboratories, the lengthening pollen season is caused by rising average temperatures.

Each day, the company collects pollen samples at sites across the country to find the top pollens present in each city, along with discovering the average length of the pollen season.

Calgary has seen an increase in its Rosaceae pollen season by 100.2 days between 2006 and 2017, and ash pollen and mustard pollen seasons have increased by 41 and 36 days respectively.

“We’re also seeing highly allergenic pollen like oak, cedar, and birch having extended seasons in Calgary, which means more time for pollen to find its way into eyes, nose and throats,” said Dawn Jurgens, Director of Operations and Quality Management at Aerobiology Research Laboratories.

McGrath said that it is important to pick the right type of treatment when it comes to dealing with allergies, whether that’s antihistamines, decongestants, sinus rinses, nasal sprays, or eye drops.

“Finding the right allergy medication really depends on your symptoms, the severity of those symptoms, your past response to medications, and any other medical conditions,” she said.

Keep the Kleenex close.

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• Warm week breaks multiple temperature records for Calgary
• Park project to commemorate heroic Cabinet Minister underway
• Teenager's body found by Hinton RCMP in canyon near Jasper