The Northeastern region of the United States features clear-cut seasonal changes that can help the traveler with allergies avoid triggers. The fresh, dry air of autumn brings brilliant fall colors and a respite from the mold spores that can trigger allergies. Unfortunately, fall is also pollen season. As with much of the United States, winter may be the best time for the pollen-allergic to visit the Northeast.

Spring

Spring showers bring everything into bloom. Unfortunately, that means the release of a variety of airborne pollens. Most prevalent in the Northeast during April and May are tree pollens, particularly from elm, birch, and hickory. The wet weather at this time of year is also ideal for the growth of mold spores, especially indoors.

Summer

The warm, humid summers of the Northeast bring wave after wave of allergenic pollens from a variety of grasses. Throughout the months of May and June, bunchgrasses (like rye and bluegrass) release pollen by the billions. Molds continue to release spores throughout the humid summer months, and dust mites thrive. Large urban centers host tourists by the thousands — and their automobiles — adding to the blanket of air pollution common to industrial centers. When ozone and airborne chemical counts peak, public health agencies may advise against outdoor activities. Travelers who suffer from the effects of air pollution may be better off vacationing at the shore, where sea breezes keep air circulating and where pollution and pollen counts tend to be lower than those of inland areas and urban centers.

Fall

This season brings one of the most troublesome pollens: ragweed. Peaking in August and September, this nuisance plant’s airborne pollens can travel up to 200 miles. Ragweed shares the autumn skies with the allergenic pollen of redtop grass all over the Northeast. Mold spores may decrease in number during the hot, arid days of Indian summer; however, the raking of leaves disturbs mold spores and may release them back into the air. Thanks to fall yard work, there may not be a noticeable reduction of mold spores in urban areas. For those allergic to mold, a walk in the woods is less likely to trigger symptoms than a stroll down a residential street. The dry weather also cuts down on dust mite reproduction.

Winter

Winter may be celebrated as the only (relatively) pollen-free season in this region — good news for holiday travelers. Snow effectively prevents most Northeastern plants from pollinating. Northeastern winters are no stranger to molds, however. They continue to grow and release their spores in damp places indoors, and under leaves and vegetation outdoors, regardless of the cold. Wood smoke can be a nuisance in densely populated rural areas and winter sports centers, acting as a trigger for those sensitive to smoke and airborne chemicals.

This entry was posted on Saturday, August 25th, 2007 at 8:11 am and is filed under Seasonal & Travel. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.