A pollen count is a measure of the amount of pollen in the air. Pollen counts are frequently included in local weather reports. The counts usually are reported for mold spores and three types of pollen: grasses, trees, and weeds. The count is reported as grains of pollen per square meter of air collected over 24 hours. This number represents the concentration of all the pollen in the air in a certain area at a specific time. The pollen count is translated into a corresponding level: absent, low, medium, or high.
In general, a “low” pollen count means that only people who are extremely sensitive to pollen will experience symptoms. A “medium” count means many people who are sensitive to pollen will experience symptoms, and a “high” count means most people with any sensitivity to pollen will experience symptoms.
Although the pollen count is approximate and fluctuates, it is useful as a general guide when you are trying to determine whether you should stay indoors to avoid pollen contact.
