Pollen

One of the most common allergens, pollen, is produced by all types of plant life including trees, grasses, weeds, and flowering plants. Pollen becomes airborne via the wind during specific periods of the year associated with the reproductive cycles of producing plant, often triggering severe allergic reactions and asthma in those sensitive to these Mold. One of the most noted severe allergens in the United States is ragweed pollen.

   Different plants release their pollen at different times of the year, depending on geographic location and the length of time since the most recent frost. Tree pollen is usually released between February and April. Grass pollen is generally airborne in May or June. Ragweed pollen is spread in the late summer and early fall. The pollen from trees and flowering plants is typically visible to the naked eye, appearing as a yellow dust in the sky that blankets the countryside. Once airborne, these contaminants enter the indoor environment through the eaves of roofing, cracks or seams in the foundation of a home, open windows, by attaching to people and pets, and by entering buildings having an indoor pressure differential to the outside air. The pollen is then circulated throughout the home via the HVAC system and ductwork, eventually settling on surfaces such as drapery, upholstered furniture, attic insulation, carpeting, rugs, pillows, bedding, and on stuffed toys. People are often prompted to prevent these adverse environmental conditions by “closing up” or “tightening up” their home. Unfortunately, this “remedy” can worsen the indoor air quality, re-circulating contaminated air, as well as trapping in moisture which allows mold and bacteria to grow.

   Pollen has been well documented as a health hazard because of its concentrations when present. Thousands of dollars are spent each year for medication to relieve allergic and asthmatic reactions, money that is often not reimbursed by many medical insurance plans.

Inhaled pollen particles congest the respiratory system, causing air passages to become swollen and narrow. Asthma occurs when the body reacts violently to the presence of the allergen pollen. Those already with asthma may find their condition worsened by pollen as the airways of their respiratory system becomes inflamed. The American Academy of Allergy and Immunology reports that pollen allergies are common in 30% to 80% of people with asthma.

Airborne pollen inside the home may cause the following symptoms and maladies:

• Headaches, nasal stuffiness or drainage, irritations of the respiratory system, tiredness, depression, sore throats, swelling or redness of the eyes, and dry coughing.
• The immune system losing its ability to fight off infections and diseases once it has reached its threshold levels, becoming toxified by molds, bacteria and chemicals.
• Chronic suffering due to asthma related breathing difficulties, especially in infants, children and the elderly.
• Allergic rhinitis in sensitive individuals.

   The prolonged use of antibiotics and antihistamines to treat symptoms can weaken the immune system’s natural ability to fend off diseases.

Scientific research has shown that the people at most risk from the toxic impact of pollens are:

• Children under 13 years old
• Elderly people over 65 years old
• People with weakened or debilitated immune systems

   Those in good health that spend extended periods of time in environments heavily laden with pollen are also at risk. Continued to even brief exposure to an allergen may eventually initiate allergies in healthy individuals. There have been reports from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that pollens are known to cause hypersensitivity diseases.