Savannah Lawns: Is Bermuda Burning Youth Lungs?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

October 31, 2025

The air in Savannah, Georgia, hangs heavy with humidity, a familiar blanket in the summer months. But for many, especially the young and active, there’s another invisible presence in that air: Bermuda grass pollen. It’s more than just a seasonal annoyance; it’s a potential threat to respiratory health that deserves serious attention. We need to move beyond generic allergy advice and delve into the specifics of Savannah’s pollen landscape and how to protect ourselves.

Bermuda grass, a common sight on lawns, golf courses, and athletic fields across the South, is a prolific pollen producer. Its pollen grains are small and easily airborne, making them readily inhalable. For those with allergies, this can trigger a cascade of symptoms, from sneezing and itchy eyes to more serious respiratory issues.

Savannah’s pollen season isn’t a single event; it’s more like a drawn-out siege. While tree pollen dominates the spring, Bermuda grass takes center stage in the late spring and summer, often peaking from May to August. A secondary, smaller peak can occur in the fall, depending on weather conditions. This extended exposure period is particularly challenging, as it coincides with outdoor activities and sports.

The impact on young people and athletes is significant. Children, with their developing respiratory systems, are more vulnerable to the effects of pollen. Athletes, who often engage in strenuous activity outdoors, inhale larger volumes of air, increasing their pollen exposure. This can lead to exercise-induced asthma, reduced performance, and even long-term respiratory problems if left unmanaged.

So, what can Savannah residents do to protect themselves? The key is a multi-pronged approach that combines awareness, avoidance, and proactive treatment.

First, know your enemy. Regularly monitor local pollen counts. Several websites and apps provide daily pollen forecasts for Savannah, often broken down by pollen type. The Allergy & Asthma Network is a good starting point, but also check local news outlets for Savannah-specific reports. Understanding the daily pollen levels allows you to plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Second, minimize exposure. This doesn’t mean becoming a hermit, but it does require some strategic adjustments.

• Time your outdoor activities: Pollen counts are typically highest in the morning and on windy days. Opt for evening workouts or indoor activities during peak pollen times.
• Create a pollen-free zone at home: Keep windows closed, especially during high pollen days. Use air conditioning with a HEPA filter to remove pollen from the air. Consider investing in a portable air purifier for bedrooms.
• Shower and change clothes after being outdoors: Pollen clings to hair and clothing. A quick shower and change of clothes can significantly reduce your exposure.
• Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from pollen.
• Consider a mask: During peak pollen days, a NIOSH-rated N95 mask can filter out a significant amount of pollen. This is especially helpful for athletes training outdoors.

Third, manage your symptoms. Don’t suffer in silence. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids can provide relief from allergy symptoms. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if symptoms are severe or persistent.

• See an allergist: An allergist can perform allergy testing to identify specific triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets), which can desensitize you to Bermuda grass pollen over time.
• Consider prescription medications: Your doctor may prescribe stronger antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other medications to manage your symptoms.
• Have an asthma action plan: If you have asthma, work with your doctor to develop an asthma action plan that outlines how to manage your symptoms and what to do in case of an emergency.

Now, let’s compare Savannah’s allergy resources to national guidelines. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) provides comprehensive guidelines for the diagnosis and management of allergic diseases. These guidelines emphasize the importance of allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Savannah’s healthcare system generally aligns with these national guidelines. However, access to allergists and specialized allergy care may be limited in certain areas of the city. It’s essential to research and find a healthcare provider who is experienced in treating allergies and asthma.

One challenge in Savannah is the lack of publicly available, real-time pollen data. While some websites provide pollen forecasts, these are often based on regional data and may not accurately reflect the pollen levels in specific neighborhoods. A local initiative to establish a network of pollen monitoring stations throughout Savannah would be invaluable in providing residents with more accurate and timely information.

Another pitfall is the tendency to self-treat allergies without consulting a healthcare professional. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying cause of the allergy. Furthermore, some medications can have side effects, so it’s important to use them under the guidance of a doctor.

For athletes, a common mistake is to push through allergy symptoms without seeking treatment. This can lead to decreased performance, increased risk of injury, and even long-term respiratory problems. It’s crucial for athletes to work with their coaches and healthcare providers to develop a plan for managing their allergies and asthma.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for Savannah residents to take control of their Bermuda grass allergies:

1. Monitor pollen counts: Check local pollen forecasts daily.
2. Identify your triggers: See an allergist for allergy testing.
3. Develop a treatment plan: Work with your doctor to create a personalized treatment plan that includes allergen avoidance, medication, and potentially immunotherapy.
4. Implement allergen avoidance strategies: Minimize your exposure to pollen by timing outdoor activities, creating a pollen-free zone at home, and showering after being outdoors.
5. Manage your symptoms: Take medications as prescribed and follow your asthma action plan if you have asthma.
6. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest allergy research and treatment options.

Don’t underestimate the impact of Bermuda grass pollen on your respiratory health in Savannah. By taking proactive steps to manage your allergies, you can breathe easier and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer. It’s about more than just managing symptoms; it’s about protecting your long-term well-being and ensuring that everyone, especially our young people and athletes, can thrive in Savannah’s unique environment.