More pollen = more misery.
And you’re probably aware that your allergy symptoms seem to be starting earlierand lasting longerthan ever before.
It’s not your imagination.
Photo:Kwun Kau Tam/Getty Images
“Research consistently shows that pollen seasons are getting longer and more intense.”
So how can you prep to reduce your suffering this season?
Why Are Seasonal Allergies Getting Worse?
The effect comes from two different triggers.
Warmer temperatures extend the blooming season, meaning plants produce pollen earlier and disperse it longer into the year.
And there’s more carbon dioxide in the atmospherewhich is what plants thrive on.
“Likewise, the first frost occurs about 10 days later.
This means tree pollen starts earlier and ragweed pollen lasts longer.
Pollen seasons are effectively year-round in some parts of the country.”
But the change isn’t consistent across the country.
Onemodeling systemfinds some pockets where oak and ragweed pollen will decrease in intensity.
Here’s where you should definitely stock up on tissues (and your allergy medicine of choice!
Wearing a hat or other head covering can help keep pollen out of your hair.
But you should start those medicinesbeforeyou need them.
“We recommend starting your allergy medicines about two weeks before pollen season starts,” Jaffe says.
That gives the meds time to build up in your system to help control your reaction.
And if your allergies are particularly severe, seeing an allergist could help you look at additional treatment options.
