Allergy Season Arrives with a Bang
Allergy season is upon us, and it’s bringing some of the most severe cases yet.
According to the American Lung Association, “Changing temperatures and precipitation patterns allow plants and trees to grow in places they didn’t grow before,” which translates to higher pollen levels and even the emergence of new pollen types.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has just published its annual report highlighting the “most challenging cities” for seasonal allergy sufferers.
This report examines the prevalence of tree, grass, and weed pollen throughout the year, weighing in on the usage of over-the-counter medications and the availability of certified allergy specialists.
For the third year in a row, Wichita, Kansas, topped the list as the leading city for allergies, largely due to its high tree and grass pollen counts.
Top 10 Allergy Capitals
- Wichita, Kansas
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Richmond, Virginia
- Greenville, South Carolina
- Greensboro, North Carolina
New types of pollen, abundant in quantity, can trigger allergic reactions even in those previously unaffected.
Dr. Purvi Parikh, an expert in infectious disease allergies and immunology at NYU Langone, shared tips on managing allergies as seasons change during an interview with Fox News Digital.
1. Stay on top of the medicine
For those struggling with seasonal allergies, Dr. Parikh suggests starting medication early.
She emphasizes, “One of the most important things we recommend is using antihistamines for 24 hours, as they’re long-acting and can really help manage symptoms.” Eye drops and antihistamine nasal sprays can also provide relief for itchy and congested noses.
However, she warns that if someone experiences breathing issues—like coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness—it could be a sign of asthma. In those cases, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to ensuring the right treatment.
2. Wash your clothes
After spending time outside, Dr. Parikh advises changing clothes and showering to wash off pollen. This can significantly reduce exposure.
Experts recommend washing bed sheets in warm water at least once a week to further limit allergen exposure.
3. Pay attention to the timing
Pollen counts tend to peak in the morning, so it’s wise to stay indoors during those early hours.
Dr. Parikh suggests keeping windows closed in the morning to minimize indoor pollen levels. Pollen levels may also spike in the late afternoon and early evening.
Interestingly, different plants and trees release pollen at varying times, so the timing of symptoms can differ based on your location.
Trees generally release the most pollen from February to April, though in some southern regions, allergies could start as early as December or January, with peaks occurring multiple times during the year.
4. Take caution when necessary
While stuffy noses and dry eyes are often chalked up to allergies, Dr. Parikh notes that other issues could be at play.
“Symptoms can be very similar for colds, viruses, and allergies,” she explains. “Allergies usually persist longer, so if you’re feeling unwell for an extended period in April and May, it’s more likely to be allergies.”
If there’s any doubt about whether symptoms stem from allergies or illness, Dr. Parikh recommends consulting a physician.
