Rain-related allergies: Tips to fight off symptoms

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (KABC) -- Does it seem like rainy weather makes your allergies worse? Doctors say there are steps you can take to fight symptoms brought on by a wet forecast.

"When it rains is when I just have to brace myself and get my tissues box ready," said Carol Torres of Hawthorne.

One or two days after a heavy downpour, Torres, is miserable. The 43-year-old says her eyes swell and she can't stop sneezing.

"My nose would drip and drip and you would think I was crying, because my eyes would just nonstop continue to tear," Torres said.

Allergist Dr. Katie Marks-Cogan says people aren't allergic to the rain but the rain's effect on tree, grass and weed pollen.

Not only do pollen counts soar because of the humidity and warm temps that follow a storm, rain drops can also split pollen grains into smaller particles.

"Because of the smaller size, the pollen can enter the small airways and noses of susceptible people and cause them to have an allergic reaction," Marks-Cogan said.

In addition, mold spores can increase after a rain storm causing even more allergic reactions in people allergic to mold.

"In some people, mold spores can have a greater effect than pollen," Marks-Cogan said.

To be prepared, Marks-Cogan advises all her patients to keep an eye on the weather forecast.

"If you know that a rainstorm is coming, make sure that you have your allergy and asthma medications on hand. Even consider pre-treating," she said.

She recommends staying indoors, keeping the windows shut, running a HEPA filter and keeping a tissue box, antihistamines and nasal sprays on hand.

Torres says allergy shots keep her symptoms under control no matter what the weather brings.

"I'm glad I know what it is, and I can treat myself. And with Dr. Katie's help, I can control it as best I can," she said.