We're breaking records for high temperatures this March. And now, records for pollen counts as well. Doctor James Harris, an allergist from the South Bend Clinic says he's been testing pollen counts for 25 years and never has he tested earlier than April 1st.
"It's completely off the scale for March. The pollen count was over 600. So we're probably 4-6 weeks ahead of schedule with pollen right now." Harris said.
Harris says that an pollen count over 300 is extremely high, and the counts we're getting in mid-March are equal to that from late April or early May.
"This is like the Tsunami of pollen. The higher the pollen count the more the symptoms are and the longer it stays high like this, which may happen this year, the more people are going to feel those affects over time because the longer you're around the pollen, the worse it is for people." Harris said.
And with the beautiful weather, so many are out earlier than normal to enjoy it. So if you're experiencing allergy symptoms the doctor has some advice.
"Well the easy answer for allergies is just stay in doors and avoid the pollen, but that's no fun this time of year, that's not what anyone wants to do, so a lot of the over the counter medications are very helpful. but still for those who are suffering a lot, it really is a good idea to see your doctor, because you don't have to suffer." Harris said.
Doctor Harris says there are a number of things that could happen with the allergy season. It could stay high for a typical six week season, it could weaken over the next few weeks, or it could lengthen what our typical allergy season is because of how early it has started. He says it really depends on the weather.
