PORTLAND, Ore. — If you've started sneezing, wiping your itchy eyes and blowing your nose already, you're not alone: Doctors say it may be early, but allergy season is here in Portland.
Dr. Mark Chan, an allergy and immunology specialist from for Kaiser Permanente, said allergy season is starting earlier than usual.
“Definitely, global warming has made an impact in many parts of the country," he said.
Climate change is causing allergy season to not only start earlier but to also last longer. It's part of a pattern that determines when spring comes along.
"In our part of the Northwest, it hasn't felt as obvious as some other parts of the country, but certainly, there are years where our winters are not as harsh, and spring will sneak in, and plants will say it's time to get going," Chen explained.
That's creating a problem for those that suffer from allergies — while tree pollen is affecting most now, grass pollen will soon pick up and run through July.
Chan said that it's best to protect yourself from allergens when you're indoors.
"Close your windows and your doors and don't let that much pollen into the home," he advised. "Running air purification systems — those are helpful. If you've been out for a long period of time, shower, rinse off, change your clothes."
He added that people can take over-the-counter medications to help with symptoms, but if anyone is having trouble breathing or the symptoms get worse, call a doctor.