The Worst Allergies in Orlando

When you have an environmental allergy, it means that your body’s immune system treats harmless substances in your environment--like plant pollen, dust mites, or pet dander--like an infectious threat. You start having allergy symptoms when your natural antibodies take defensive action against the allergen.

Because it is a humid, subtropical climate, Orlando is home to many allergen-producing plants. Some of these allergens may be present in the Orlando area year-round, making them hard to avoid.

Most Common Orlando Allergies

As a humid, subtropical climate, Orlando has many different types of plants that thrive and bloom throughout much of the year.

Tree Allergies

Most trees trigger allergies by producing pollen that depends on wind to spread and fertilize other plants. Different types of pollen can trigger allergies in many individuals.

Orange blossoms may be a beautiful symbol as the state flower, but it can also wreak havoc on individuals with allergies. Orange flower buds start to develop in early winter, but usually bloom in April. Sometimes people who are allergic to orange blossom pollen may also have a food allergy to citrus.

Bayberry, a large shrub native to the Eastern U.S., has a season that typically runs from March to early July, peaking in April and May in Orlando.

Oak season starts in February and lasts through July, and is usually at its worst months in April, May, and June. Oak pollen often creates the yellow-green dust you may find on many outdoor surfaces, such as cars and playground equipment.

Cypress is another abundant allergen in the Orlando area, as these trees can be found throughout Florida. The allergen-producing period is February through May, but is at its worst in March and April.

Queen palm trees are common in Florida, and can trigger allergies most of the year. However, they are often at their strongest between the months of January and June.

River birch trees can be found throughout the northern half of Florida, including the Orlando area. These trees bloom from late winter to early spring, when they cause the most trouble for allergy sufferers. Birch pollen allergies are more likely to cause oral symptoms, such as itching, swelling, or scratchiness in their mouths or throats.

Pine tree allergies are rare. However, because pine trees create large amounts of pollen, and are abundant in Florida, they can trigger persistent symptoms in those who are allergic to them. These trees often bloom in the spring months.

Other Plant Allergies

Besides trees, other types of plants produce pollen in the Orlando area.

Melaleuca is an evergreen plant in the myrtle family that can range in size from a small shrub to a small tree. These are popular garden plants in tropical areas. Their allergy season runs most of the year, from February through September, but usually peaks April through July.

Grass in warm, humid climates like Orlando can cause allergy symptoms from March to October. The worst period, however, is usually late April to early July.

Ragweed and other weed pollen can aggravate allergies for most of the year in the Orlando area: from April all the way into December. However, they usually peak in August through October.

Mold Spore Allergies

Mold spores area common allergen produced by several types of mold. Mold spores may be present year-round, but have two peak periods in Orlando: February through April, and August to October.

Are Orlando Allergies Bothering You?

Allergy symptoms can look a lot like a cold or flu,so you may not be sure if you’re dealing with allergies or an infection.

Common allergy symptoms include:

●       Runny nose or nasal congestion

●       Scratchy throat

●       Fatigue or difficulty sleeping

●       Coughing or wheezing

It is more likely that you have allergies if you also have any of the following symptoms, as well:

●       Itchy, stinging, or watery eyes

●       Hives or rash where your skin came in contact with an allergen

●       Dry, scaly skin

●       Symptoms that change with your environment

Not sure about your symptoms? Check out our guide to help you tell the difference.

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Tips to Control Your Allergies in Orlando

●       Use an app or website to check and track the pollen count in Orlando

●       Keep doors and windows closed during high pollen counts

●       Remove shoes when coming inside your home and change your clothes immediately

●       Wear larger sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats outside to keep pollen out of your eyes and sinuses

●       Change indoor air filters every season

●       Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50% to prevent mold

●       If your pets are indoor/outdoor, give them a bath at least once a week

●       If you carry a backpack or other bag outside, leave it in the entryways of your home, and never in the bedroom

●       Pollen counts are the highest in the early morning and when it is warm and dry, so avoid staying outdoors during these times

●       Wash rugs, curtains, and bedding regularly

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You don’t have to let allergies keep you from enjoying the fun and beauty of the Orlando area! We have a four different locations in the Orlando area! Including the areas of Dr. Phillips (Orlando), Sanford, Winter Garden and Winter Park!

Our team of specialists include Dr. Suresh Raja, sinus surgeon, Dr. Santiago Martinez, allergist, Stephen Schmalbach, MMS, PA-C, and Angela Chandler, APRN, FNP-C. This super team is highly trained and experienced in testing, diagnosing, and treating allergies. Start on a path toward a long-term solution and book your appointment online today!