Allergies Are Wreaking Havoc in Oklahoma: Here's What You Need to Know.

Spring allergy season is here, and if you've been feeling sniffly, you're not alone.

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Lots of people in Oklahoma are dealing with runny noses, headaches, itching, and other allergy symptoms. Did you know that Oklahoma City is ranked the 18th most challenging place to live with spring allergies in the United States?

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Pollen In The Air

One big reason for all the sneezing and sniffling is the pollen in the air. Windy days make it worse, and Oklahoma City is known for being pretty windy. So, what's causing all these allergies? Well, one major culprit is the ash juniper tree, also known as cedar. These trees release a lot of pollen, especially right after a cold front. Unlike most other trees, cedar pollinates in the winter, which means people can have allergy symptoms from December to early March.

@localman_weather ALLERGIES ARE A NIGHTMARE IN TEXAS (if you have allergies) #allergies #texas #texasweather ♬ original sound - LocalMan_Weather

Allergy Forecasts

Right now, the pollen levels in Oklahoma are moderate, but they're expected to go down in the next few days. The Weather Channel gives daily forecasts for allergy levels in Oklahoma City.

If you're struggling with allergies, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:

  • Take a shower and change your clothes after being outdoors.
  • Keep your windows closed to avoid letting pollen into your home.
  • Use an air filter in your home to clean the air.
  • Wear a mask when you're outside, especially on days when pollen levels are high.
  • Talk to your doctor about medications like pills or nasal sprays that can help with your allergies.

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Gallery Credit: Lauren Wells

Oklahoma's Beneficial Insects

Not all insects are pests! There are some insects that are beneficial to you and your garden. In a study by the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service on beneficial insects, "most insects found in yards, gardens or crops do not feed on or harm plants. Many are just 'passing through' or have very innocuous habits. Others feed on and destroy pest species. In many cases, the activities of these beneficial species can prevent or greatly limit pest problems."

Gallery Credit: Jeri Anderson

Oklahoma's Most Liberal Cities

Politics in Oklahoma seem to make headlines every election cycle. We're known as "the most conservative state" in the nation, but the reality doesn't always reflect that. By the statistics, when you see how voters vote, the Sooner State is split pretty evenly right up the middle-ish. While every county is majority Republican, here are the "most liberal" cities in the state.

Gallery Credit: Kelso