Smoke and pollen bring duel threat to sinus issues

Heavy smoke from wildfires in the Pacific Northwest and in British Columbia, combined with rising pollen counts, will bring the threat for increased allergies heading into Wednesday.

At least twice this year, the smoke has already affected mid-Missouri. Both times, there was haze in the sky, thanks to smoke that traveled into the Midwest through the upper air pattern.

So, how does this happen?

It has a lot to do with how fires operate. The hotter the fire, the higher the smoke goes and the farther it can travel.

Current analysis shows just how many wildfires are going on across the country, with the bulk of them occurring across the Pacific Northwest. It’s these fires that are causing low air quality across the nation and will bring the threat for increased sinus issues.

It’s not just the smoke causing allergy problems either, as ragweed season is in full bloom. Thanks to high pressure weather patterns keeping most of the Midwest dry, this has allowed the ragweed to flourish and stick around in the air.

Combine that with the smoke that has been seen in the sky as of late, and many people might find themselves reaching for allergy medication.

There are some things you can do to prevent your sinuses from getting out of hand, especially as we continue to head into the fall months:

– Stay inside, and keep windows closed to prevent smoky air from entering your home. While smoke will be minimal here in mid-Missouri, it’s still recommended if moderate air quality affects your sinuses to keep the windows closed.

– Use eye drops and nasal spray to help wash the particles out of your eyes and nose, which will help decrease the allergy issues.

– Make sure to constantly wash your hands, clothes and hair when outside on high pollen days.

– Take anti-histamines.

Pollen.com shows that pollen counts will be on the rise in the coming days thanks to the quiet weather that is expected. The main allergens are ragweed, chenopods and nettle, of which ragweed is a main seasonal allergy during this time of the year.

Stay with ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather as we continue to monitor the upcoming allergy season and follow us on Twitter @ABC17Stormtrack.