Why are spring allergy seasons getting longer and more intense?

Spring allergy seasons are getting longer and more intense primarily because of climate change, which has extended pollen seasons by an average of 20 days since 1990.

What causes common allergy symptoms like runny noses and itchy eyes?

When pollen particles are inhaled, some people's immune systems overreact, releasing histamines into the blood, which causes symptoms such as runny noses and itchy eyes.

How can I best manage my seasonal allergy symptoms this spring?

To manage allergy symptoms, it is recommended to check pollen counts, start treatments early, use high-efficiency air filters indoors, and keep windows shut.

Home / Health / Climate Change Fuels Longer, Intense Allergy Seasons

Climate Change Fuels Longer, Intense Allergy Seasons

20 Mar

•

Summary

Pollen seasons have extended by an average of 20 days since 1990.
Climate change is the primary cause of longer, more intense pollen seasons.
Western cities are increasingly appearing on 'Allergy Capitals' lists.

Spring allergy sufferers face a more difficult season this year, with climate change extending pollen seasons by an average of 20 days between 1990 and 2018. This phenomenon results in more intense and prolonged allergy symptoms for the 106 million Americans affected.

Tree, grass, and weed pollen counts are already escalating in the Western and Southern United States. Warmer temperatures are predicted to drive high tree pollen levels northward, impacting over 29 states. This early and strong pollen season can be attributed to climate change.

Pollen particles are easily inhaled, triggering immune responses in sensitive individuals. The body releases histamines, leading to common allergy symptoms like runny noses and itchy eyes. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America identifies "Allergy Capitals" based on pollen levels, medication use, and allergist availability.

This year, more western cities are appearing on these lists, linked to increased grass and weed pollen spikes. To manage symptoms, individuals are advised to monitor pollen counts, start treatments early, use high-efficiency air filters, and keep windows closed, opting for air conditioning.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.

Climate Change Fuels Longer, Intense Allergy Seasons

20 Mar

•

Summary

Pollen seasons have extended by an average of 20 days since 1990.
Climate change is the primary cause of longer, more intense pollen seasons.
Western cities are increasingly appearing on 'Allergy Capitals' lists.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.