Spring is here, but that also means allergy season is in effect. For those who have allergy symptoms, it seems to worsen each year. It has now been proven that allergies do in fact get worse year after year, and according to the Vox, the climate is to blame for it.
In addition to the worsening conditions, the number of people getting allergies is increasing due to the pollen count and global warming.
Weather Woes
At least 50 million Americans suffer from some sort of nasal allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergy season has extended from 11 days to 27 days since 1995. This stems from the weather climate which creates more pollen in the air and more allergy symptoms.
The AAFA also stated that with rising temperatures creating longer allergy seasons, it can lead to poor air quality and more asthma attacks.
The Union of Concerned Scientists stated that carbon dioxide is one of the main three factors that has attributed to the climate change that enhances allergy symptoms. Carbon dioxide increases the growth of plants which rising amount of potency in pollen.
Which Cities Are Affected The Most?
Though allergy season has affected everyone in America, there are certain states that have been deemed the most "challenging" to live during this time of year. The top five cities to stay away from if you have allergies are McAllen, Texas, Louisville, Kentucky, Jackson, Mississippi, Memphis, Tennessee, and San Antonio, Texas, according to the AAFA.
The list was made of the three major factors: the allergy medication usage, the pollen and mold count, and the availability of board-certified allergists.
Other states that were mentioned as difficult places to live in during allergy season were: Ohio, Nevada, and Rhode Island.
What Can Be Done?
The AAFA provided some helpful tips for anyone who is suffering from seasonal allergies. Over-the-counter medication is usually the number one source of relief people go to that suffer from dreadful allergy symptoms.
The AAFA also suggested on the days that the pollen count is high to limit their outdoor activities, wear a hat to cover your hair and limit close contact with pets that have been outside all day.
"This report helps people in these areas be more aware of what may contribute to their allergy symptoms so they can work with their health care providers to get relief. With the right treatment plan, seasonal allergies can be managed for better quality of life," Kenneth Mendez, President of the AAFA, stated.
