The season for allergies is arrived. It may vary depending on where you live, but generally speaking, it describes the period from early spring through late October when various trees, grasses, and weeds discharge pollen into the atmosphere.
According to a new analysis published this month by Climate Central, the allergy season is regrettably getting longer and worse. In many parts of the country, climate change is causing plants to leaf and bloom earlier, resulting in a longer and overall more intense season for people who suffer from seasonal allergies to pollen and mildew.
The length of the growing season in the United States has increased by at least a month in 31 cities, according to Climate Central’s analysis of growing seasons since 1970. With a 99-day increase, Reno, Nevada, had one of the longest extensions. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: (See how your city compares to other allergy capitals.)
According to Dr. Shuba Iyngar, co-founder and chief medical officer at Allermi, there have been numerous studies that demonstrate how climate change has caused allergy seasons to last longer, be more intense, and have higher pollen counts. As a result of altered pollination patterns brought on by rising temperatures, persons with pollen allergies are experiencing symptoms that are more severe and last longer.
Some people struggle with itchy eyes, while others may endure other vexing symptoms including a bothersome runny nose. On how to be ready for allergy season and what to watch out for, we spoke with two allergists.
How do you know if you have seasonal allergies?
Like with many common illnesses, there are some symptoms that are more common than others.
Itchy eyes, runny nose, itchy nose, and nasal congestion are the most typical symptoms of seasonal allergies, according to Iyengar.
Seasonal allergies, according to her, may also cause more frequent sinus infections and snoring issues at night.
Asthma symptoms are a less well-known sign of seasonal allergies.
Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist and immunologist at the Allergy & Asthma Network, noted that many people are unaware that seasonal allergens frequently cause asthma attacks. Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath are respiratory symptoms that should not be taken lightly.
How can you prepare for allergy season?
The negative effects of pollen levels and other irritants are pretty much inescapable for people who have seasonal allergies. However, Iyengar suggested a few preventative measures, including shutting bedroom windows to prevent pollen from coming in at night, frequently showering to get pollen off your body and taking your shoes off at the door to prevent tracking pollen into the home.
Even though you might already have allergy medication on hand to take when symptoms appear, Parikh advised starting allergy and asthma preventative medication as soon as possible. The best time to manage it is now, before symptoms worsen, as opposed to later.
What s the best treatment for seasonal allergies?
Depending on the type of seasonal allergies you have, this is the best course of action. Iyngar reiterated what several allergy doctors have already told HuffPost: Nasal sprays are typically more successful for treating seasonal allergies.
Nasal sprays are the most effective treatments for treating environmental allergies, according to Iyengar. The majority of over-the-counter antihistamines reduce itching only temporarily and do not solve the underlying issue. Because they reach the inside of the nose, where the inflammation takes place, nasal sprays perform better.
