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Record Pine Pollen: No Holiday for Allergies

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For interviews and tours of the Delaware Valley’s only certified pollen and mold spore stations for the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) with stations, please email gwoodlyn@asthmacenter.com

“Pine pollen is extreme today,” says Dr. Dvorin “Sudden hot temperatures, less rain than expected, and more wind—all these weather conditions likely led to today’s surge in Pine pollen, and outdoor mold spores are extreme too!”

Today’s count is the highest Pine Tree Pollen count observed in the Delaware Valley since May, 2012.  

Pine Tree Pollen is extreme at nearly 1200 grains per cubic meter of air/24 hours.

Below are two images of Pine Tree Pollen from today’s air sample taken by Dr. Dvorin right from his microscope.  The image on the left was taken at a higher power while the image on the right was taken at a lower power.  

Extreme pine2a 05312016extreme pine1a 05312016

 

 Pine Pollen Allergy Alert

When you compare today’s images above, especially the higher power image on the left, with the below image which was taken by Dr. Dvorin on 5/19/2016 to illustrate the “Mickey Mouse” appearance of Pine Pollen grains , the difference in volume is dramatic.

Pine Pollen Grain with Mickey Mouse Air Sacks
Pine pollen grains typically have 2 large air sacs on either side which give them a “Mickey Mouse” Appearance. Pine Pollen Grain Photo Courtesy of Dr. Dvorin, direct from his microscope.

 

Despite the abundance of pine pollen in our air samples, pine pollen allergy is often ignored.

“For individuals who today are sneezing, itching, have itchy watery eyes and/or other allergy & asthma symptoms, exposure to multiple aeroallergens—what’s in the air—especially pine pollen in our air matters now,” explains Dr. Goldstein. “Pine pollen makes our region unique from an allergy perspective compared to other areas of the Northeastern U.S. where pine pollen is minimal, nonexistent, or other species are prevalent.”

Is Pine Pollen Allergy playing a role in your symptoms?

The Asthma Center routinely tests for pine pollen sensitivity —contact the office location near you to schedule an appointment! For more information on Pine Pollen Allergy, be sure to read our recent blog “Pine: Star Player Triples – Mold Batting Cleanup”

Today’s only official Pollen & Mold Spore Counts for the Delaware Valley:

Overall Tree Pollen Volume and Pine Tree Pollen both increased more than 60% today compared to Friday’s count.

At nearly 1300 pollen grains per cubic meter of air, Tree Pollen is extreme and may provoke severe symptoms. (any count above 1000 is extreme – see How We Count Pollen)

Predominant: Pine Tree Pollen alone is nearly 1200 (also extreme) and today accounts for more than 90% of all tree pollen currently in the air.  

Other tree pollen observed in today’s sample include Mulberry, Oak, Walnut, Sweet Gum, Hickory/Pecan, Birch, Ash, & Juniper.

Grass Pollen has remains High. Are you ready? For tips on Grass Pollen Preparedness, read our 5/9 blog Extreme Tree + More Grass & Molds = Misery Monday

Outdoor Mold Spores have nearly around 40% compared to Friday’s count.

At well over 7700 spores per cubic meter of air for 24 hours, Outdoor Mold Spores are extreme and may provoke severe symptoms.

For more on Outdoor Mold Spores and mold allergy, be sure to read our 5/24 blog Rain Brings Trouble As Mold Spores Double

Weed Pollen is moderate. The only weed pollen in the air today is plantago lanceolata (more commonly known as English Plantain.)

For more information on English Plantain, check out the 5/26/2016 pollen blog Pine & Weed Double Header.

If you would like to know if English Plantain weed pollen allergy is playing a role in your symptoms, The Asthma Center does routinely test for pine pollen sensitivity and English Plantain weed pollen sensitivity—contact the office location near you to schedule an appointment!

What Can you do?

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s only Official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau. Subscribe to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

Are you taking too much or too little medication? Are your allergy symptoms (or side effects from too much medication) inferring with your quality of life?

At The Asthma Center, we know that no two individuals are alike, and our goal is to personalize your treatment to help you find relief. We accomplish this through identifying your allergies and specific levels of allergic sensitivity through allergy skin testing to help you plan your treatment.

Once a treatment plan is in place, we work with you to correlate your symptoms by following the local pollen counts. This allows us to customize treatment for your specific situation and therefore prevent and/or treat symptoms by making sure that you know how to adjust your medications up and down and take just the right amount!

Make an appointment to see one of our board certified allergists – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications—call a location near you now and be sure to ask about our special Saturday hours!

Pine Past Prime? Still Playing Hardball

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For interviews and tours of the Delaware Valley’s only certified pollen and mold spore stations for the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) with stations, please email gwoodlyn@asthmacenter.com

“It looks like we may be past the peak of Pine,” says Dr. Dvorin “but the heat and humidity are also playing a role in pollen distribution.  Outdoor mold spores are still very high, approaching extreme levels, and English Plantain weed pollen.  When you consider what’s in the air—Pine Tree Pollen, Outdoor Molds, and Weeds plus the weather variable and the priming effect, the outlook is tough if you have allergies & asthma.”

Today’s only official Pollen & Mold Spore Counts for the Delaware Valley:

Overall Tree Pollen volume and Pine Tree Pollen both decreased an estimated 35% today compared to yesterday.  At nearly 600 pollen grains per cubic meter of air, tree pollen remains in the Very High range and may continue to provoke moderate to severe symptoms.  As a reminder, tree pollen counts of 1000 and above are considered extreme.

Predominant: Pine Tree Pollen alone is nearly 450 today and once again accounts for 75% of all tree pollen currently in the air. 

Despite the abundance of pine pollen in our air samples, pine pollen allergy is often ignored.

“For individuals who today are sneezing, itching, have itchy watery eyes and/or other allergy & asthma symptoms, exposure to multiple aeroallergens—what’s in the air—especially pine pollen in our air matters now,” explains Dr. Goldstein. “Pine pollen makes our region unique from an allergy perspective compared to other areas of the Northeastern U.S. where pine pollen is minimal, nonexistent, or other species are prevalent.”

Curious about what makes Pine a powerhouse hitter in the Delaware Valley? Read yesterday’s post “Pine: Star Player Triples – Mold Batting Cleanup”

Grass Pollen has decreased approximately 30% today but remains High.  Are you ready?

For tips on Grass Pollen Preparedness, read our 5/9 blog Extreme Tree + More Grass & Molds = Misery Monday

Outdoor Mold Spores have decreased around 13% compared to yesterday.  However, at over 5,000 spores per cubic meter of air for 24 hours, outdoor mold spores are very high and continue to have the potential to provoke moderate to severe symptoms.  As a reminder, outdoor mold spore counts of 7000 and above are considered extreme.  For more on Outdoor Mold Spores and mold allergy, be sure to read our 5/24 blog Rain Brings Trouble As Mold Spores Double

Weed Pollen is low.  The only weed pollen in the air today is plantago lanceolata (more commonly known as English Plantain.)  For more information on English Plantain, check out yesterday’s blog Pine & Weed Double Header

If you would like to know if pine pollen allergy or English Plantain weed pollen allergy is playing a role in your symptoms, The Asthma Center does routinely test for pine pollen sensitivity and English Plantain weed pollen sensitivity—contact the office location near to schedule an appointment!

The next Pollen & Mold Spore Count Report will be on Tuesday 5/31/2016.

What’s the Ahead?

The Asthma Center would like to take this time to wish all our friends, patients and staff a Happy Memorial Day! This weekend, we remember the men and women in our armed forces who died fighting for our country and thank them for their service. 

memorial day

 

If you have allergies, asthma, or sinus problems, there are many things to consider as you plan your weekend.  Weather variables will play a role concerning what’s in the air.  Another important factor to consider is the “priming effect.”  The priming effect is set up during the early periods of exposure to pollen (as in the beginning of tree pollen season). Depending on an individual’s level of allergic sensitivity, symptoms typically are experienced with higher levels of pollen. As the season progresses and exposure to the relevant pollen diminishes, “priming” accounts for why less pollen exposure in the air continues to provoke the same allergic misery.” For more on the priming effect and other Q&A, read Dvorin & Goldstein Field Questions: Pollen & Allergy Misery.

 

How to Get Relief?

With the temps into the 90s this weekend, it’s more likely than not that most time spent during the day will be outside. While we all know protection from the sun is important, allergy sufferers need to take additional precautions against aeroallergens.

Typically, pollen in the air tends to peak around early-morning, causing symptoms to be at their worst then. However, this year we’ve continuously seen a different trend: pollen has been reaching its peak levels around mid-day. If levels rise this weekend, allergy sufferers could be feeling the effects later in the day. Luckily, there are a few ways to mitigate your worst allergy symptoms. Here are some best-practice tips for keeping your weekend allergy free: 

  • Wear long sleeves and long pants when mowing the grass.  
  • Sleep with windows closed and drive with windows up (Don’t miss blog Shut the Door, Seal the Windows )
  • Beware of tracking grass pollen into your home (kids, pets especially, newspaper sleeves, and on shorts and jackets)
  • Shower and wash your hair after extended outdoor exposure
  • Wear sunglasses or glasses outdoors to limit exposure of pollen to your eyes
  • Avoid wearing contact lenses, or switch to daily disposable contacts to avoid allergens building up on the lenses
  • Wash your hands and face frequently, including eyebrows
  • Change your pillowcase often

 

Allergy-Free Gardening

Allergy-sufferers who like to garden or are looking to buy flowers for the holiday weekend may experience difficulty around flowers and other plants in indoor and outdoor garden environments. Fortunately, many flowers produce very little or no pollen. However, it’s important to recognize the few that can cause misery to allergic individuals. Learn more about allergy-free gardening and indoor houseplants/flowers here.

Grass pollen tips / Does the smell of cut grass bother you?

Mowing your lawn regularly can help cut down on the pollination of grasses on your property. However, many people experience allergy symptoms when exposed to the smell of freshly cut grass. Allergic reactions to mowed grass are more likely from the non-pollen parts of the grass containing allergenic proteins or molds being stirred up in the mowing process. When you mow your lawn, allergen concentration of this type will dramatically increase for a short period of time during and immediately after you mow.

So, mowing your lawn will often be beneficial in the long-term, though it may aggravate your allergies short-term.  Reactions to cut grass sometimes can go beyond the spring grass pollination season as well.  Again, this is not due to grass pollen but from exposure to mold spores or reactions to other grass antigens in the blades of grass.

 

Next Pollen and Mold Spore Count: Monday 5/31/2016

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s only Official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.  Subscribe to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

 

Make an appointment to see an allergist – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications when you could be targeting your symptoms with the help of our allergy experts!  At The Asthma Center, we know that no two individuals are alike, and our goal is to personalize your treatment to help you find relief.  We accomplish this through identifying your allergies and specific levels of allergic sensitivity through allergy skin testing to help you plan your treatment. By following the local pollen counts, we are able to customize allergy regimens that prevent symptoms caused by taking too little, or too much allergy medication.

 

 

Pine & Weed Pollen Double Header

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For interviews and tours of the Delaware Valley’s only certified pollen and mold spore stations for the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) with stations, please email gwoodlyn@asthmacenter.com

Today’s only official Pollen & Mold Spore Counts for the Delaware Valley:

Overall Tree Pollen volume increased an estimated 28% today compared to yesterday. At nearly 900 pollen grains per cubic meter of air, tree pollen remains in the Very High range and may continue to provoke moderate to severe symptoms.  As a reminder, tree pollen counts 1000 and above are considered extreme.

Pine Tree Pollen is increased slightly compared to yesterday and again is the predominant pollen.  Today, pine tree pollen accounts for 75% of all tree pollen currently in the air. 

Despite the abundance of pine pollen in our air samples, pine pollen allergy is often ignored.

Pine Pollen Grain with Mickey Mouse Air Sacks
Pine pollen grains typically have 2 large air sacs on either side which give them a “Mickey Mouse” appearance

“For individuals who today are sneezing, itching, have itchy watery eyes and/or other allergy & asthma symptoms, exposure to multiple aeroallergens—what’s in the air—especially pine pollen in our air matters now,” explains Dr. Goldstein. “Pine pollen makes our region unique from an allergy perspective compared to other areas of the Northeastern U.S. where pine pollen is minimal, nonexistent, or other species are prevalent.”

Curious about what makes Pine a powerhouse hitter in the Delaware Valley? Read yesterday’s post “Pine: Star Player Triples – Mold Batting Cleanup”

 

Grass Pollen is increased again today and remain High.  Are you ready?

For tips on Grass Pollen Preparedness, read our 5/9 blog Extreme Tree + More Grass & Molds = Misery Monday

Outdoor Mold Spores have decreased approximately 20% compared to yesterday.  However, at over 5,600 spores per cubic meter of air for 24 hours, outdoor mold spores are very high and continue to have the potential to provoke moderate to severe symptoms.  For more on Outdoor Mold Spores and mold allergy, be sure to read our 5/24 blog Rain Brings Trouble As Mold Spores Double

Weed Pollen is moderate.  The only weed pollen in the air today is plantago lanceolata (more commonly known as English Plantain)

There are many kinds of weeds which produce pollen in the Delaware Valley with most typically producing pollen from August through September.  However, a few types of weeds produce pollen during the early and midsummer seasons.  Plantago lanceolata (commonly known as English Plantain) is one of the “early weeds.” 

After finishing today’s counts, Dr. Dvorin reviewed his historical data for English Plantain weed pollen for the last 5 years.  “We do see English Plantain at this time of year, in some years,” said Dr. Dvorin.  “It [English Plantain] is definitely an early-mid summer pollen for the Delaware Valley with steady volume in June and July, not a big volume pollen usually, but a steady one.
“For English Plantain to be in the moderate range today, this could well be an extra problem for anyone who is also allergic to trees, grasses and or outdoor molds.”

The reason, according to Dr. Dvorin, that having weeds in the moderate range could be an extra problem is due to the priming effect. The priming effect is set up during the early periods of exposure to pollen (as in the beginning of tree pollen season). Depending on an individual’s level of allergic sensitivity, symptoms typically are experienced with higher levels of pollen. As the season progresses and exposure to the relevant pollen diminishes, “priming” accounts for why less pollen exposure in the air continues to provoke the same allergic misery.” For more on the priming effect and other Q&A, read Dvorin & Goldstein Field Questions: Pollen & Allergy Misery.

In the United States, English Plantain is an invasive species. It was likely brought to the Americas as a tea or herbal remedy.  Homeowners and landscapers recognize English Plantain as one of the two types of plantain which are troublesome for lawn care.  This is because plantain weeds in general thrive in compacted and/or poor soil conditions and takeover quickly if a lawn is neglected. So add weeds to the list of reasons why lawn care is important along with grass pollen!

If you would like to know if pine pollen allergy or English Plantain weed pollen allergy is playing a role in your symptoms, The Asthma Center does routinely test for pine pollen sensitivity and English Plantain weed pollen sensitivity—contact the office location near to schedule an appointment!

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s ONLY official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.  Subscribe  to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

Make an appointment to see an allergist – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications when you could be targeting your symptoms with the help of our allergy experts!

Pine Pollen Plume

Pine: Star Player Triples; Mold Batting Cleanup

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For interviews and tours of the Delaware Valley’s only certified pollen and mold spore stations for the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) with stations, please email gwoodlyn@asthmacenter.com

We’ll get to our heavy hitter, Pine Tree Pollen, right after…

Today’s only official Pollen & Mold Spore Counts for the Delaware Valley:

Outdoor Mold Spores have increased to over 7000 spores per cubic meter of air for 24 hours and are extreme with the potential to provoke severe symptoms.  For more on Outdoor Mold Spores and mold allergy, be sure to read yesterday’s blog Rain Brings Trouble As Mold Spores Double

Grass Pollen is increased again today and remain High.  Are you ready?

For tips on Grass Pollen Preparedness, read our 5/9 blog

Overall Tree Pollen volume more than doubled today compared to yesterday.  At nearly 700 pollen grains per cubic meter of air, tree pollen remains in the Very High range and may continue to provoke moderate to severe symptoms.

 

Pine Pollen Triples compared to yesterday and is the predominant tree pollen player in the air today.

“In our 24 hour air sample, I started seeing more pine pollen grains later in the day—considering that we have sunshine and drier conditions today, expect these numbers to increase,” reports Dr. Dvorin.  “We are now in the peak of pine pollen season.”

 

 

Pine Pollen Volume Unique to the Delaware Valley

Pinelands-highlight easy

Within the heart of the Delaware Valley sits the 1.1 million acre (see map) protected open space known as the New Jersey Pinelands. Although there are over 110 different species of the pine family (Pinus), this protected area is home to the largest cluster of pitch pine, Pinus rigada (see picture below) on the United States (U.S.) Eastern coastline.

“For individuals who today are sneezing, itching, have itchy watery eyes and/or other allergy & asthma symptoms, exposure to multiple aeroallergens—what’s in the air—especially pine pollen in our air matters now,” explains Dr. Goldstein. “Pine pollen makes our region unique from an allergy perspective compared to other areas of the Northeastern U.S. where pine pollen is minimal, nonexistent, or other species are prevalent.”

Dr. Dvorin, co-founder of The Asthma Center, has been studying the tree pollen seasons in the Delaware Valley each spring for years. From the very beginning, he has observed notable pine pollen levels in both our Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia air samples.

According to Dr. Dvorin, typically pine tree pollen appears in late May through the end of June with extreme peak levels recorded over 1000 pine pollen grains per cubic meter of air/24 hours.    This year, however, has not been a typical year. Pine tree pollen made an earlier than usual first appearance in mid-March, not unlike many other tree pollen species in the Delaware Valley this spring.   As often noted in our daily counts and pollen blogs, pine pollen has been part of the “big three—Oak, Pine & Mulberry”—which have all been pumping tree pollen into our air and causing misery for allergy sufferers.

“We’re definitely in the height of pine pollen season,” reports Dr. Dvorin.

Pitch Pine Pollen Trees
NJ Pinelands are home to the largest cluster of pitch pine, or pinus rigada, on the United States Eastern coastline

With levels tripling in the last 24 hours, pine tree pollen today is over 300 per cubic meter of air/24 hours and is the predominant tree pollen in the air, contributing nearly 50% of all tree pollen currently in the air.

Despite the abundance of pine pollen in our air samples, pine pollen allergy is often ignored.

Allergists both locally and nationally have for years felt that pine pollen is not a clinically relevant allergen, and many rarely test for pine pollen allergy.  Some studies suggest that the prevalence of pine pollen allergy may range from 2%-10% of the population; however, there have been no studies that have firmly established the incidence of pine pollen allergy in the general allergic population.

Because of our region’s proximity to the Pinelands, the board certified Allergists of The Asthma Center continue to clinically recognize allergic symptoms at this time of year can be caused by pine pollen allergy.  “We have included pine pollen in our allergy skin testing panel for years because we’re near the Pinelands and we know significant levels of pine pollen can be in the air,” explains Dr. Goldstein.  (Read more about The Asthma Center if you are interested in being tested for pine pollen allergy.)

 

Pine Pollen Grain with Mickey Mouse Air Sacks
Pine pollen grains typically have 2 large air sacs on either side which give them a “Mickey Mouse” appearance.

 

Box Score on Pine Pollen Allergy

Pine pollen grains typically bear a waxy thick coat that surrounds its rather large size (see picture).  Pine pollen grains can be 60 to 100 micrometers in diameter.  Pine pollen is large compared to other pollen grains (typical pollen grain size is approximately 10 micrometers).  The size of pine pollen had been felt to be a reason why pine pollen might not be distributed by wind and through the air.  However, studies (and Dr. Dvorin’s own pollen counts) have proven that this not the case.  In fact, despite its large size, pine pollen is capable of traveling great distances. 

The pine pollen grain typically has 2 large air sacks that give it a “Mickey Mouse” appearance (see picture.)  These air sacks reduce the pine pollen grain density and contribute to the pollen’s buoyancy, allowing it to travel long distances in the air.  As an example, the center of the Pinelands is about 40 miles from Center City Philadelphia.  Yet our urban air samples from our Philadelphia, PA collection station are generally the same relative volume of pine pollen grains as found in our suburban air samples from our Mount Laurel, NJ collection station which is 30 miles from the Pinelands.

Thinking that the size of pine pollen grains were too large to enter the nasal and lung passages, many physicians (including allergists) did not consider pine pollen a relevant allergen.   Evidence that it can be inhaled and provoke symptoms are found in cases reported in the medical literature as far back as 1921.  Published results from limited investigation of pine pollen allergy have shown that pine pollen allergy does cause allergic responses in the skin (positive allergy skin tests) and allergy responses on nose, eye, and lung challenges.

In addition to the limited reports of pine pollen-induced hay fever or bronchial asthma, there have been reports of allergies to ingested pine nuts (the seeds of pine trees) or from pine nuts found in pesto, sauces, salads, meatballs, cakes, candies and cookies.  Interestingly enough, there is very little cross reactivity of pine nuts with other tree nuts.  This is due to the fact that, evolutionarily, pine nuts are not from flowers as in the case of other tree nuts (like walnut, hazelnut, cashew, pistachios), but are contained within the pine cone—making them antigenically different from other tree nuts.

Another unusual manifestation of pine pollen sensitivity is in those who have “Xmas tree allergy.”  This may be due to pine pollen being released from pine cones when cut trees are hydrated in the home causing nasal, eye, and chest symptoms during the Xmas holiday season.

The board certified Allergists at The Asthma Center are very much aware, therefore of the importance of pine pollen as an important spring allergen.  Many patients who previously escaped diagnosis of seasonal pine pollen allergy was due to the fact that allergy skin testing to pine pollen was not performed or was not considered as a clinically significant allergen capable of provoking symptoms.  If you would like to know if pine pollen allergy is playing a role in your symptoms, The Asthma Center does routinely test for pine pollen sensitivity—contact the office location near to schedule an appointment!

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s ONLY official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.  Subscribe  to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

 

Make an appointment to see an allergist – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications when you could be targeting your symptoms with the help of our allergy experts!

Rain Brings Trouble As Mold Spores Double

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“Outdoor mold spores more than doubled compared to yesterday, “ reported Dr. Dvorin.  “It’s the weather—the storms and the rain—and temperatures heating up.”

In the past 30 days, the National Weather Service (NOAA) recorded more rain for Philadelphia/Mount Holly, NJ than for Seattle, WA!

Rain, lightning, and thunderstorms have all been part of the “unsettled” weather patterns in our region, and Dr. Dvorin has observed quite a “rollercoaster” of volume for pollen and outdoor spore counts, all of which defy the so-called “pollen & mold forecasts” available online and by smartphone app.

Just as weather has played a role in disrupting the pollen process, today’s intensification of outdoor mold spores in the air samples are likely because mold thrives with heat and moisture.  Today’s outdoor mold spore counts is over 6000 mold spores per cubic meter air/24 hours which is Very High and may provoke moderate to severe symptoms for those with outdoor mold allergy.

Outdoor Mold Spores – What are they?

Molds, also known as fungi, produce spores and other fungal particles. Our Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count only tracks outdoor mold spores, not those that may be present in a home. Outdoor mold spores, like pollen, are airborne and become abundant in the warmer weather months. Here in the Delaware Valley, molds appear in the early spring and persist throughout the summer and fall seasons. There is no “peak” in mold spores due to their general prevalence throughout most of the year, but the highest levels are typically observed from midsummer to late fall.  During winter months, outdoor mold spores reduce significantly – especially during snow cover.

It is easy to tell the difference between pollen and mold spores under a microscope. However, outdoor mold spores typically have similar appearances and are too small to tell apart. There are several types of molds in the local area: Alternaria, Cladosporium, Basidiospores, Ascospores, Epicoccum.

Tree pollen volume increased approximately 40% compared to yesterday and remains Very High and capable of provoking moderate to severe allergy symptoms.

Predominant Tree Pollens: Oak, Pine & Mulberry

Grasses increased approximately 15% and are High.

Ragweed and other weed pollens are not seen.

Count Rollercoaster 05 20 2016

What Steps Can I Take?

Outdoor mold spore symptoms are very similar to other allergy symptoms and often require a similar treatment plan. Grasses are tied to outdoor mold spores in a very specific way. Many people think that the symptoms they experience when mowing their lawns are related to a grass pollen allergy. In reality, the reaction is due to exposure to mold spores released in the air during the mowing as well as other grass antigens.

When mowing your lawn, be sure to:

  • Wear long sleeves and long pants when mowing the grass.  Be sure to shower & wash your hair afterwards.
  • Limit time outdoors during the early morning hours when the most pollen is released
  • Sleep with windows closed and drive with windows up (Don’t miss our recent blog Shut the Door, Seal the Windows )
  • Beware of tracking grass pollen into your home (kids, pets especially, newspaper sleeves, and on shorts and jackets)
  • Shower and wash your hair after extended outdoor exposure

For more information on grass allergies, read: Extreme Tree + More Grass & Molds = Misery Monday

If you find you aren’t having success with managing your allergies on elevated outdoor mold spore days, it may be time to create or reexamine a plan of action with one of The Asthma Center’s Board Certified Allergists. We are still early in the season for outdoor mold spores, so don’t wait until your symptoms are at their worst to Get Relief!

Subscribe

to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

Dvorin & Goldstein Field Questions: Pollen & Allergy Misery

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Today’s only official Pollen & Mold Spore Counts for the Delaware Valley:

Tree Pollen is Very High. Even though there was light rain in our region, tree pollen volume increased. This is primarily due to a surge in Pine Tree pollen which today accounts for nearly 60% of all tree pollen volume. It’s difficult to comprehend, but today there’s more than 20 times as much Pine tree pollen in our local air samples compared to yesterday. Mulberry tree pollen is edging out Oak—together, however, Mulberry and Oak tree pollen account for another estimated 35% of all tree pollen.

According to Dr. Dvorin, the peak of Pine Tree pollen is close, but still hasn’t arrived—more info to come on Pine Pollen Allergy!!

Grass Pollen remains steady at Moderate levels.

Outdoor Mold Spores doubled in volume and are Very High.

The Questions:

Dr. Dvorin came into work early today so that he could not only collect and count today’s air samples, but also so that he could answer questions from subscribers who receive The Asthma Center’s Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count direct to his or her inbox. Likewise Dr. Goldstein started his day early to help address the questions that are pouring into The Asthma Center.

We hear the same questions (and sneezing) from members of the media, cashiers at our local 7-11s and WaWas, and the person sitting next to us on our commuter train, and the list goes on and on. We also hear the same questions from our patients (new and current) who are looking to The Asthma Center for ways to find relief from allergy misery.

“And the two questions I am most often asked: why are my symptoms so bad this year and when will tree pollen ‘lighten up or end’? Another question I hear is why can’t I ‘forecast’ the pollens or at least make a ‘projection’? ” reports Dr. Dvorin.

“People want answers, they want to feel better, and they want to get outside!” says Dr. Goldstein.

After counting today’s sample, Dr. Dvorin spent time reviewing the 2016 Tree Pollen counts through today compared to other years. Based on more than 25 years of historical data, in a “typical” spring, tree pollen season would begin mid-March, peak volume would be observed during the last week of April-first week of May. The end of pollen from “hardwood” trees (including Oak) would be seen approximately by the end of the first week of June with Pine Trees pollen continuing until July.

“2016 [Spring Pollen Volume] has been anything but typical,” says Dr. Dvorin shaking his head. “It’s been a roller coaster with the weather and for pollen, particularly Tree Pollen, and dispersion in the air.  There’s been disruption to the usual process with pollen released later in the day versus the typical early morning peaks.  Just different, and–the peaks of Pine Tree Pollen and Grass Pollen still haven’t arrived. “

But there’s more to it than just the weather and pollen volume, Dr. Dvorin explains. “First there’s always things that change—when I’m helping individuals—new to our practice or a current patient–with spring hay fever symptoms get relief, we have to remember that a person’s sensitivity can change from year to year, and so can his or her response to a treatment plan.”

“Our board certified Allergists investigate quickly when an individual reports “this year I feel worse,” Dr. Dvorin adds. “Our bodies change, or exposure to allergens change, lots of things change, so investigation including allergy skin testing becomes essential. Sometimes a medication becomes ineffective or just doesn’t work any more or we need to try to maximize a medication regimen or consider the best treatment available, and that’s allergy shots!”

According to Dr. Goldstein, “Here’s why allergy shots make such a difference—Allergy shots are disease-modifying, which means they [allergy shots] don’t just treat the symptoms, but allergy shots prevent symptoms before they ever start.”

What Is The “Priming Effect” ?

It can be confusing when allergy symptoms persist even after exposure to a triggering allergen decreases or stops (for example, when pollen volume levels are lower or at the end of a particular pollen season.) The variable that must be then considered is the well documented and recognized phenomena of “the priming effect.”

Dr. Goldstein explains, “The ‘priming effect’ is set up during the early periods of exposure to a pollen (as in the beginning of tree pollen season). Depending on an individual’s level of allergic sensitivity, symptoms typically are experienced with higher levels of pollen. As the season progresses and exposure to the relevant pollen diminishes, “priming” accounts for why less pollen exposure in the air continues to provoke the same allergic misery.”

Another thing to consider with the “priming effect:” If an individual has allergies in the nose, eyes, and chest, once there is nasal, eye, or lung inflammation from an allergic trigger (like Tree Pollen), an individual will be more sensitive to even non specific irritants (pollutants, odors, smells) that normally would not trigger symptoms.

Dr. Dvorin on Pollen “Forecasts”

“I’m asked that again and again,” says Dr. Dvorin. “Number 1 reason—currently there is no published, scientifically validated model for pollen forecasting. Empirically, when we compare our pollen data with the forecasts that are out there—available on the internet and phone apps, the correlation is poor. When we take into account the symptoms experienced by the patients in our clinical practice, again, the correlation with pollen forecasts is poor.”

“We are working on a forecast model at The Asthma Center for metropolitan Philadelphia,” stated Dr. Dvorin. “I’m not saying it’s impossible, but a validated model is not available yet.”

What can you do?

“Follow our pollen counts and pollen blogs,” says Dr. Dvorin. “I’ll keep you as informed as I can about ‘what’s in the air, and be proactive about treatment—if you’re having a bad time now, find out exactly what you’re allergic to, and keep history from repeating itself!”

For those suffering from terrible allergies right now, if over-the-counter (OTC) medications are not helping, you may want to start thinking about ways to prevent “history repeating itself” next spring. For example, if you are allergic to tree or grass pollen, Allergy Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots) or perhaps oral immunotherapy grass tablets may be helpful to get through the grass pollen season next year. If you are allergic to multiple kinds of pollen (tree, grass, ragweed, and/or other weeds), allergy shots are extremely effective in reducing the acute symptoms of nasal allergy such as sneezing and congestion (just to name two.) Allergy shots are also beneficial if you have multiple pollen allergies and experience other symptoms such as fatigue, sinus headache, mental “fogginess,” and cough, which are all symptoms often associated with severe allergies.

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s ONLY official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.

Subscribe

to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

 

Make an appointment to see an allergist – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications when you could be targeting your symptoms with the help of our allergy experts!

Aging Oak Reigns…Horse Chestnut Blooms

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“Here’s how I know Oak Tree Pollen volume will be declining in next several days,” explained Dr. Dvorin after finishing today’s count.

“Oak pollen grains in the air samples right now are not as fresh they were, compared to a few days ago.”

“You can tell when pollen grains are older,” Dr. Dvorin explained further.  “Oak Tree pollen grains are still identifiable and predominant in both Mount Laurel and Philly air samples today, but they look ‘older’– when pollen has been in the air for awhile, the grains start to break down, and compared to fresh and recently released pollen, they just look older.”

Today, Delaware Valley’s only official Tree pollen count is between 60-70% lower today than yesterday at 150 pollen grains per cubic meter of air/24 hours.  Tree pollen remains Very High and even though volume is reduced, it can trigger moderate to severe symptoms.  For more information on pollen volume and symptom correlation, check out Dr. Dvorin’s recent pollen blog: Pollen Volume: We’ve Got the Full Story.

Oak Tree Pollen decreased but is the predominant tree pollen in both the urban (Philadelphia, PA) and suburban (Mount Laurel, NJ) air samples.  Pine Tree Pollen volume dropped an estimated 75%-80% while Mulberry Tree pollen volume dropped an estimated 82%-90%.

Grass pollen remains Moderate. 

Outdoor Mold Spores decreased and are High.

“Once again the weather is playing a significant role in the process,” said Dr. Dvorin.  “Overnight lows in the 30s for our area and more rain—we’ve seen this again and again over the past weeks. “

The rain knocks light pollen grain to the ground, at least temporarily, and the buds on trees close up in response to chilly temperatures.  Then when the ground dries out, sometimes quickly, the wind picks or the electrical charge in the air changes (with thunderstorms and lightning), sudden bursts and increases in pollen in the air spell trouble for allergy sufferers.

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s ONLY official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.  Subscribe  to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

A Parisian Spring in Philly

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You may have heard before that Philadelphia’s city planning was based on Paris – just take a look at the Parkway! Another thing we have in common with Paris? Horse Chestnuts. These trees are very commonly planted in Paris and can be found on many grand boulevards and park settings. Our friend Tony Aiello, the Director of Horticulture and Curator at the University of Pennsylvania’s Morris Arboretum, helped us identify the Horse Chestnut you see in the picture above. This photo was taken on West River Drive by a member of The Asthma Center staff on her way home from work.

Horse Chestnut will grow to 40 feet tall with a spread of 40 feet. It will thrive in inner city environments due to its high tolerance of urban pollution. While the leaves begin to brown around the edges by late summer, these magnificent trees are stunning in May with pink flowers.

By 1904, an estimated ¼ of all trees in the Eastern US were American Chestnuts. However, in 1905 a fungus was discovered in the Bronx Zoo that quickly decimated the Chestnut tree population. Recently, thanks to cross breeding with Chinese Chestnuts that are resistant to the fungus, numbers are on the rise.

If you have one nearby, don’t fret too much. The pollen is heavy and doesn’t travel far. Also, don’t bother trying to eat the chestnuts. They are more bitter than their Chinese counterparts which we are accustomed to eating.

 

Make an appointment to see an allergist – Why Choose Us?

The best way to fight your allergies is to visit a board certified allergist, learn what your allergies are, create a treatment plan, and adjust as needed. No two allergy sufferers are alike, so don’t rely on over the counter medications when you could be targeting your symptoms with the help of our allergy experts!

Smokers Beware: New Study Supports Lung Screening

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The good news is that cigarette smoking in the United States has decreased to 15-20% of the population from a high of over 50% in the 1970s.  However, smoking continues to be a health threat not only for increased risk of cancer (lung cancer and other cancers including cancers of the lip, pharynx and oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, larynx, cervix uteri (women), kidney and renal pelvis, bladder, liver, colon and rectum; and acute myeloid leukemia);  but also increased risk for development of heart disease (high blood pressure, pulmonary embolism [PE], deep vein thrombosis [DVT], stroke, and peripheral vascular disease);  chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);  and other diseases such as type 2 diabetes, rheumatic arthritis, cataracts and macular degeneration.

To further our understanding of smoking related lung disease, a study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM May 12, 2016) found that 50% of so-called “healthy” smokers and ex-smokers (those with normal lung function by breathing tests) in fact have frequent lower tract respiratory exacerbation, activity limitations, and evidence of airways disease on lung CT.  It is unclear if and when these individuals transition into conventionally defined COPD and how to treat these individuals.

At The Asthma Center, we screen all individuals who have a significant smoking history (greater than 20 pack year history smoking; 1 pack year = 1 pack/day x 1 year) by having them undergo a screening pulmonary function test (spirometry) and complete a simple, validated COPD Assessment Test  (CAT) questionnaire.  In the recently published study, such screenings can pick up those who are at greater risk of going onto to develop full blown COPD.  Early intervention in this group may prevent progression of smoking related changes in the lungs.

If you are a current smoker and/or an ex-smoker, your risk for developing COPD and/or lung cancer are significant even if you have no symptoms.  Even after smoking cessation, the risk for developing COPD and lung cancer remains although diminished compared to an active smoker.  To understand your risk, it is worth getting these simple screenings– CAT questionnaire and lung spirometry– to identify whether you have smoking related lung disease in spite of not having chronic symptoms.

Combination Inhaler Safety Confirmed By New Study

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Good news for anyone with persistent asthma!

 

The Asthma Center physicians were investigators in a breakthrough clinical trial which serves as the basis for a new asthma study just released  yesterday in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) which confirmed the safety of combination inhaled corticosteroids with long acting bronchodilators in patients with persistent asthma. 

The results apply to products like Breo, Advair, Dulera and Symbicort.  These longstanding inhaler products are commonly prescribed to help asthma sufferers get relief and keep asthma under control.  For several years, these medications have been under the watchful eye of the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) amid concerns regarding risk of asthma related deaths and/or asthma exacerbations associated with the use of these combination inhalers.

This new 26 week study showed that salmeterol (Serevent) in combination with fluticasone (Flovent) [Comparable to Advair] did not have a significantly higher risk of serious asthma related events, including death, than those treated with Fluticasone alone.

In fact, subjects on combined salmeterol and Fluticasone had fewer asthma flares compared to those treated with Fluticasone alone.

In summary, The Asthma Center specialists continue to be confident in the efficacy and safety of inhalers which combine corticosteroids with long acting bronchodilators (Advair, Breo, Dulera, and Symbicort) in controlling asthma symptoms in those with persistent, moderate to severe asthma.

Our highly trained physicians, nurses and staff know that asthma symptoms can make day-to-day life difficult.

  • Do you have trouble breathing or coughing?
  • Difficulty making it through a work-out or playing sports?
  • Chest tightness?
  • Wheezing?
  • Shortness of breath?
  • Trouble breathing in the cold or seasonally?

Whether your symptoms are newly developed or have been around for years, The Asthma Center offers individualized treatment plans and comprehensive care for our patients.  Click here to learn more about asthma, and how we help individuals with asthma Get Relief!

Subscribe  to receive News from The Asthma Center, our Daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s only Official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau, Office Location & Shot Hour updates, and more.

Media inquiries:  gwoodlyn@asthmacenter.com 215-569-1111.

 

Pollen Volume: We’ve Got the Full Story

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“Volume is never the whole story.”

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again from Dr. Dvorin.

Today, however, The Asthma Center is pleased to present Dr. Dvorin’s first local pollen count vlog, so you have a chance to hear him describe today’s pollen and mold count for the Delaware Valley.

Today, Delaware Valley’s only official Tree pollen count is lower today but still Very High.  Trees don’t need to be at extreme levels in the air to trigger moderate to severe symptoms.  For more information on local pollen counts and symptom correlation, see How We Count Pollen.

 Dr. Dvorin saw concentrations of more than 400 grains per cubic meter of air. While it’s a decrease from earlier counts, there has been notable movement in what’s in the air.

Mulberry v. Oak

The battle for the Delaware Valley rages on. If this is the first you are hearing about it, catch up with Oak & Mulberry: Tree Pollen Battle Brewing.

Yesterday, Oak tree pollen constituted 80% of the pollen sample at our suburban station. Today, Oak tree pollen is reduced to 60% while Mulberry jumped from 1% to 20%. In our urban station, Mulberry jumped from 38% to 58% and Oak fell from 42% to 32%. Read our blog post “Street Tree Mulberry Struts it’s Stuff” to learn about Philadelphia’s street tree history and new places you can explore in the city. The differences in pollen predominance are relevant because not everyone experiences all tree pollens the same. A Very High day may feel worse for you than an Extreme day if the pollen you are most sensitive to increases. That is why The Asthma Center and Dr. Dvorin are committed to bringing you what’s in the air and not just volume.

Pineland Pollen Blitz Ahead

As we’ve noted before, Pine tree pollen has not yet fully arrived. Pine pollen has been known to dominate the air sample, especially with the Jersey Pinelands so close.

Grasses Advance Again

The levels go up steadily every day for Grass pollen. While they are still Moderate, expect a continuous climb as the season continues. For more tips on how to manage worsening Grass pollen symptoms, read “It’s Raining, Pouring: Local Pollen Count Soaring”.

Outdoor Mold Spores Drop Slightly from Very High to High.

No Ragweed or Other Weed Pollen are Seen.

 

What Can You Do?

Be sure to check back in for The Asthma Center’s daily Pollen and Mold Spore Count, the Delaware Valley’s only Official count station which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau.  Subscribe  to receive our daily counts by email or check out some of our other blog posts to learn more about what is in the air, how it can affect you, and what you can do about it.

 

Get Relief-Saturday appointments are available!

The best way to manage your allergies is to find out exactly what’s causing your symptoms. The Asthma Center has 9 locations in PA & NJ with the following Saturday hours in addition to our normal Monday – Friday business hours.

May 14: the Mount Laurel, NJ location will be seeing patients.

May 14:  the Hamilton, NJ location will be seeing patients.

May 14 and June 4: the Langhorne, PA office will be seeing patients.

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