How to Check Pollen in Your Area

Pollen is made up of tiny particles that produce plant male "gametes" or sperm cells. Pollen is blown by the wind, and also transported by birds, bees and other animals. When inhaling pollen, some people have an allergic reaction commonly referred to as "hay fever." Pollen counts are often reported by meteorologists. Being aware of the pollen count in your area is an important step to avoiding hay fever.

Instructions

Checking the Pollen Count

• 1

  Go to a weather-related website. There is a link in the resources section to a pollen count webpage. Pollen counts are generally described in particles per cubic meter. They are measured using specialized instruments that pump a precise amount of air through a filter, which is then analyzed under a microscope.

• 2

  Enter your zip code under the pollen count section to see daily and historical levels for different types of pollen. If you don't know what kinds of pollen you are allergic to, see an allergist to be tested.

• 3

  Perform a rudimentary pollen test yourself. Place a piece of clear scotch tape outside your home so that the sticky side is exposed. After three hours, remove the tape.

• 4

  Compare pieces of tape with the naked eye or under a magnifying glass. This is not a quantitative technique - it will only be useful if you can do it every day and compare side by side. Very significant differences in the pollen count should be noticeable on the tape, but there is no easy way to distinguish pollen grains from dust and other particles, so this method is unreliable and may be a better science project than a useful measure of pollen.

Dealing with High Pollen

• 5

  Shut doors and close windows to prevent pollen from being blown into your home.

• 6

  Wash pets often. The coats of dogs and cats are great magnets for pollen.

• 7

  Remove jackets and shoes outside or in the garage to limit the amount of pollen you bring inside.

• 8

  Wash your hair before bed or if your symptoms are especially bad. Pollen can accumulate in the hair and cause allergic symptoms throughout the day.