Pollen problems: Experts warn brutal allergy season could hit the Bronx
At Soundview Park, it’s easy to see why. Pollen is dangling from trees, dusting cars in a green film and floating through the air as people walk by — triggering sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes across the borough.
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If your car is coated in green — and your sinuses feel the same way — you’re not imagining it. Allergy season is back, and experts say this year could hit harder than usual.
At Soundview Park, it’s easy to see why. Pollen is dangling from trees, dusting cars in a green film and floating through the air as people walk by — triggering sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes across the borough.
“Allergies are my worst nightmare,” Byrant said, as he walked his dog through the park. “I sneeze, I get a runny nose, I get hives.”
Allergists warn the worst may still be ahead. Dr. Charles Shapiro, of Magnet Health, says rising carbon dioxide levels are fueling stronger pollen production.
“Our carbon dioxide is going up, so the trees are making a lot more pollen than they used to,” Shapiro said.
He says pollen levels are expected to spike within the next two weeks — potentially sending many people into what feels like a full-blown cold.
The Bronx, already one of the more polluted boroughs, can make symptoms even worse for residents sensitive to airborne irritants.
But there are ways to get ahead of it.
Doctors recommend wearing a mask outdoors on high-pollen days, starting allergy medications early instead of waiting for symptoms and exploring longer-term options like oral treatments or allergy shots to build tolerance.
Shapiro says he’s already seeing patients come in early this season — hoping to stay ahead of the surge.
