Early spring brings early, long allergy season
Deseret News • • general
Key Points:
- Seasonal allergies are starting earlier and expected to last longer this year due to unseasonably warm weather, especially in the Intermountain West region.
- The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that at least 106 million Americans suffer from allergies, with Boise, Idaho, ranking as the worst city for allergies due to high pollen levels and few allergy specialists.
- Pollen, a common airborne allergen, triggers various allergic conditions including asthma, rhinitis, and conjunctivitis, with symptoms ranging from itching and sneezing to difficulty breathing.
- Experts recommend preventive measures such as monitoring pollen counts, starting allergy medications before symptoms arise, using high-efficiency air filters, and practicing good hygiene to reduce exposure.
- The foundation’s 2026 list of top allergy capitals includes Boise, San Diego, and Provo, while cities like Houston, New York, and San Antonio report fewer allergy challenges.
