Olivia Clapcich- Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - Florida’s allergy season is year-round due to its climate, with intense spring tree pollen (Feb.–May) and fall weed pollen (Sept.–Nov.).
Seasonal allergies, occur when the immune system overreacts to outdoor allergens like pollen or mold, affecting over 82 million people in the U.S. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, and itchy, watery eyes, commonly caused by trees in spring, grass in summer, and ragweed in fall.
Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) Sophomore Josie Kropfl said, “When I lived in New Jersey, I never suffered this much from allergies, moving down here was a full 360 of allergies I never thought I would have.”
Key Florida Allergy Facts for Students
The "Never-Ending" Season: Florida’s mild climate means plants release pollen nearly all year, starting as early as January.
Spring Peaks (Feb–May): Oak, cedar, and cypress trees cause high pollen counts. March and April are often the worst.
Summer/Fall (June–Nov): Grass pollen rises in summer, while ragweed and other weeds peak in the fall.
Humidity & Mold: Florida's humidity leads to high mold counts, a common indoor/outdoor trigger.
School Safety: If one has a diagnosis of Asthma, please remember the key trigger for an Asthma flare up (attack) are seasonal allergies. Continue to take allergy medicine throughout the entire allergy season. Do not skip days
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Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) registered nurse Lisa Mattia shared tips that can help Mustangs stay healthy -
Check Forecasts: Check pollen levels on weather apps, as levels are highest in the morning and on dry, windy days.
Reduce Exposure: Keep windows and doors closed, use air conditioning to filter air, and replace filters accordingly
Hygiene Habits: Shower immediately, wash hair, and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen.
Medication: Use over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays for relief.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water (at least 64oz daily) to help thin out mucus caused by congestion.
It is important that people know whether they are suffering from allergies or a cold. Key things to remember are that allergies last weeks, causes itchy eyes, sneezing, and clear, watery mucus.
Colds last about a week, causing fatigue, body aches, and thicker mucus. Stay healthy Mustangs.