Pollen

Allergy to airborne pollen grains from certain grasses, weeds and trees is common to people with asthma.

Asthma may get worse during pollen seasons (usually in spring and early summer or during the dry season in tropical regions).

Pollen Allergy is usually caused by imported grasses, weeds and trees, which are wind pollinated. It is not usually caused by Australian native plants (although there are exceptions, such as Cypress Pine), and is not usually caused by highly flowered plants as they produce less pollen (which is transported by bees) than wind pollinated plants.

The following measures may help reduce exposure to pollen, but are yet to be proven to improve asthma control.

• Remain indoors during pollen seasons, on windy days or after thunderstorms.
• Avoid activities known to cause allergen exposure – such as mowing grass.
• Shower after outdoor activities where there is high exposure to pollen.
• Use recirculated air in the car when pollen levels are high.

The Asthma Foundation of South Australia Pollen Count is available every day. Samples of the air are analysed to gauge how much pollen is airborne and whether the level is considered high or low. The sample is taken in a particular part of the city, but is still considered accurate for metropolitan Adelaide. The count is then made available on the Foundations’ website at www.asthmasa.org.au, in The Advertiser newspaper and on Channel 9 weather reports.

Click here to find out more about asthma and allergy friendly garden, plants and home.