Welcome to allergy season. Here's how to protect yourself
WXII • • health
Key Points:
- Allergy season affects tens of millions of Americans with symptoms like runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing, and its severity varies based on location, allergens, and lifestyle.
- Climate change is contributing to longer and more intense allergy seasons due to milder winters and extended growing periods, with last year noted as one of the most severe seasons on record, especially in the Southeast U.S.
- The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America lists Boise, Idaho; San Diego; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Provo, Utah; and Rochester, New York as the top five U.S. cities with the most challenging allergy conditions this year.
- Experts recommend avoiding pollen exposure by keeping windows closed, wearing protective clothing, showering after outdoor activities, and using saline rinses; masks can also help reduce inhalation of pollen but do not protect the eyes.
- Over-the-counter nasal sprays and allergy pills are effective treatments when used correctly, but persistent or severe symptoms affecting quality of life should prompt consultation with an allergist for advanced therapies; popular remedies like local honey lack scientific support.
