The allergy season is in full swing with the recent rains in Los Angeles and people are experiencing severe allergy symptoms. This year’s wet and windy spring season has given way to unseasonable high mold spores and pollen counts across Southern California.

“Additional humidity and moisture triggers higher concentrations of mold spores and pollen, exacerbating nasal and upper airway passages,” said Dr. Eli Hendel, pulmonologist with Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center. “For those who have both asthma and allergies, rainstorms can trigger more serious inflammation.”

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), approximately 25 million people suffer from asthma in the U.S., 7 million of whom are children. According to the ACAAI, there is a higher incidence of asthma exacerbation, emergency room visits and admissions to hospitals during peak pollen season. There is also a disproportionate increase in asthma hospitalizations and deaths for African-Americans compared to Caucasians. Dr. Hendel recommends having rescue and maintenance asthma and allergy medication nearby at all times.

Because mold spores thrive in damp locations, those who have leaky roofs or home flooding may experience symptoms related to both indoor and outdoor mold exposure. Dr. Hendel suggests keeping windows closed in homes and running a HEPA filter to help purify indoor air and collect particulate matter.

The top allergens released in the spring are tree and grass pollens. Allergy symptoms can affect the nose, chest, skin and eyes ranging from mild symptoms, such as congestion, coughing, skin rash and itchy water eyes, to more severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing and rashes/hives all over the body. Anyone who experiences severe symptoms should call their doctor right away or get to the nearest emergency room.

“Be proactive – manage allergy symptoms by minimizing your outdoor exposure to mold and spores during high rain seasons,” said Dr. Hendel. “If you experience asthma symptoms, talk with your physician about adjusting your inhaler treatment plan to ensure it works for you. Prescribed usage of antihistamines, nasal sprays, and saline rinses can also help relieve common symptoms like congestion or throat and eye irritation.”

By educating the public about asthma and allergy triggers it is hoped that people will be more aware and seek help from their medical providers to avoid more serious complications.