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Allergy Sufferer In The Willamette Valley? You're Not In A Good Place.

Bonnie Moreland, Mcfarlandmo
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For those of you suffering from runny, itchy noses and watery eyes in the Willamette Valley, relief is coming...though probably not soon enough. As KLCC’s Brian Bull reports, allergy season is underway in one of the worst spots in the world.

Grass pollen counts have been off the charts since late May. A major factor is that the Willamette Valley is home to the Grass Seed Capitol of the World. Yes, you heard that right.

Melanie Wayne of Oregon Allergy Associates says they measure pollen in parts per million, and so far have recorded some rather high numbers.

“Right over Memorial Day, May 28th – 29th, was our highest count at 667.  It’s off the charts because about 20 is considered ‘high’. Over 200 is considered ‘very high’.”

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Puffy eyes, red, itchy nose, sinal pressure...yep, it's grass pollen time.

Antihistamines and injections can alleviate allergy symptoms, though it’s recommended meds begin weeks, even months ahead of grass pollen season. Regardless, there’s relief ahead.

“Grass pollen counts come way down by July 4th, and people are much more comfortable and usually stop their medication regimen.”

Wayne adds it’s good to shower at night so not to take pollen to bed with you. 

Copyright 2018, KLCC.

Brian Bull is an assistant professor of journalism at the University of Oregon, and remains a contributor to the KLCC news department. He began working with KLCC in June 2016.   In his 27+ years as a public media journalist, he's worked at NPR, Twin Cities Public Television, South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Wisconsin Public Radio, and ideastream in Cleveland. His reporting has netted dozens of accolades, including four national Edward R. Murrow Awards (22 regional),  the Ohio Associated Press' Best Reporter Award, Best Radio Reporter from  the Native American Journalists Association, and the PRNDI/NEFE Award for Excellence in Consumer Finance Reporting.
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