If the sound of sniffles wasn’t enough of a clue, it’s officially pollen season in Georgia. It’s also here earlier than usual.

On Tuesday, Atlanta Asthma & Allergy’s pollen count hit quadruple digits for the first time this year at 1,112.

In 2022, the pollen count didn’t top 1,000 in the high range until March 30. Anything over 1,500 is classified as “extremely high,” which Atlanta will see soon.

Atlanta Allergy & Asthma says Tuesday’s count is also the second highest it has ever recorded in February. On Feb. 19, 2019, the count reached 1,126.

There have been a total of 14 days in the high range (90 to 1,499) in February, the most in recent history for the month.

Part of that is the warmer weather that Georgia has experienced this winter. Since Dec. 1, there have been only 17 days with highs in the 40s or cooler compared to 49 days with highs in the 60s or warmer.

“If you’re inhaling something that you’re allergic to, not only can it trigger nasal symptoms, but it can actually trigger asthma type symptoms, as well,” Dr. Erinn Gardner with Atlanta Allergy & Asthma told our partners at Channel 2.

Gardner recommends over-the-counter medicines for mild symptoms. She added that getting tested is key for the best treatments.

Tree pollen season typically runs from late February to June. The metro Atlanta area typically sees the most extreme numbers around March or April.

Once the “extremely high” pollen days start later in spring, allergy experts say trying to limit your exposure to allergens can help.

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