Now the pollen levels of alder are starting to decline, but the levels have been so high that even those who are not normally allergic to alpine pollen may have felt it, says Björn Gedda, palynologist at the Swedish Museum of Natural History who measures pollen levels in Uppland.
- Compared to last year when it was a record low, we have a hundred times more this year, he says.
Cures are available
Towards the end of April, willow and birch are expected to release their pollen.
It is not possible to predict the amounts that come from willow, but the levels of birch pollen can be predicted and those amounts are expected to be normal.
There are cures for allergy sufferers but the medicine should be taken well in advance.
- It is good to start before the allergic reaction has started in the body. If you have major problems, you can combine eye drops and nasal spray with medicine, says Thérèse Åkerlund, pharmacy manager in Uppsala.