Allergies spike in warm, damp weather

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - This time of year would normally see snow on the frozen ground, but right now Hoosiers may be suffering from allergies and related symptoms, like sneezing, watery eyes and runny nose.

The combination of rain and temperatures near 70 this week has caused mold to grow.

Local allergist Dr. Pinkus Goldberg with Allergy, Asthma, & Clinical Immunology Associates in Indianapolis said right now, Hoosiers aren’t plagued by pollen allergies; instead they suffer from mold, dust and animal dander.

“Last spring was really bad, we had a very prolonged and high pollen season. In the summer we had the drought and actually pollen counts went down; it was very dry, the air contained a lot of pollutants,” Dr. Goldberg said. “We had a beautiful last couple months, but now we're heading back into traditional Indiana weather, so anything goes.”

Doctors say if you're suffering, limit the time you're outside on damp days.

Also, buy a dehumidifier for your home, and keep the indoor humidity levels between 40 percent and 50 percent.

If you have any questions about allergy symptoms or treatment, talk to your doctor.