If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, the burning, itchy eyes and runny noses could last as much as 27 days longer than in the past.
Warmer, wetter winters are changing worldwide weather patterns and increasing airborne pollen levels for a longer period of time. The result is a more intense allergic reaction, according to a recently released report by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
“Some research has suggested that the warming trend that we have in our environment is causing the pollen seasons to start a little bit earlier, and extend a little bit longer. Consequently, patients are suffering because they’re exposed to pollen, for longer periods of time.” said Dr. Stanley Fineman, former president of the ACAAI
According to NBC News, millions of Americans are experiencing what Dr. Clifford Bassett, an allergist and medical director of Allergy & Asthma Care of NY, calls an “allergy explosion.”
“Climate change, globalization, air pollution, and over-sanitization of the environment in the early years of life are just a few of the causes that, taken together, have introduced new germs into our environment are causing needless suffering.” said Dr. Bassett
Oak, maple, and birch trees are the “big bad” pollen makers. They are producing pollen at higher rates simultaneously with poplar, alder and ash. Other allergic triggers include, fragrant flowers and flowering weeds, like dandelions.
6 Things to Do If Your Allergies are Exploding:
- Wear Oversized or Wrap-Around Sunglasses
They block the airborne pollen that causes redness from entering your eyes and lids. - Wear a Hat
Preferably a wide brimmed one. Hair gels can turn your head and hair into a pollen magnet, pollen adheres and is easily transferable to your bedding, sheets and pillows. - Don’t Hang Wed or Damp Clothing on the “Line”
Use a dryer to prevent pollen from sticking to your clothes. - Beat the Clock
Consider exercising indoors on very high pollen days (especially if you are sensitive to seasonal pollen present in the air). Higher levels of pollen are usually found on warm, dry and windy days and lower pollen counts on windless, wet and cloudy days. - Know Your Pollen Count
Pollen levels often rise on windy, dry and sunny days and lower on wet, rainy and still days. Check your local weather reports to identify peak allergy days. - Confirm Your Seasonal Allergy Diagnosis
Is it allergies or a cold, or something else? In-office allergy tests can help pinpoint sensitivities and allow a more tailored and successful treatment plan.
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