Seasonal allergies caused by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds are becoming more severe and lasting longer due to climate change. Rising temperatures, increased carbon dioxide levels, and changes in precipitation patterns contribute to earlier pollen release, higher pollen production, and extended pollen seasons. This trend is concerning for allergy sufferers, but there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms.
1. Allergy Seasons Are Starting Earlier
Warmer temperatures are causing plants to bloom earlier, leading to earlier pollen release and longer allergy seasons. Some areas are experiencing pollen seasons starting up to 20 days earlier than in previous decades.
2. Pollen Levels Are Increasing
Higher carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are stimulating plants to produce more pollen. Studies have shown a 20% increase in pollen concentrations across North America since 1990.
3. Pollen Is Becoming More Potent
Increased carbon dioxide levels are not only causing plants to produce more pollen but also making the pollen itself more allergenic, with higher levels of the proteins that trigger immune responses.
4. Allergy Seasons Are Lasting Longer
With warmer temperatures extending into the fall, pollen seasons are lasting longer than before, exposing allergy sufferers to irritants for a more extended period.
5. Climate Change Is Expanding Pollen Ranges
As temperatures rise, plants and trees are expanding their ranges, introducing new allergens to areas where they were previously absent.
6. Monitor Pollen Counts
Stay informed about pollen levels in your area by checking local pollen count reports or weather forecasts. Avoid outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
7. Keep Windows Closed
Prevent pollen from entering your home by keeping windows and doors closed, especially on high pollen count days. Use air conditioning instead.
8. Use HEPA Filters
Install high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home’s heating and cooling system to trap pollen and other allergens.
9. Shower After Being Outside
Rinse off pollen that may have accumulated on your skin, hair, and clothing by taking a shower after spending time outdoors.
10. Wear a Mask
When engaging in outdoor activities like gardening or yard work, wear a mask to reduce pollen inhalation. Hate getting overheated when wearing a mask? Try one of these:
- M2 Mesh Mask: The M2 Mesh Mask is ideal for warm weather and high-activity levels. It is breathable and features a one-strap design for easy use.
- M2.5 Mesh Mask: The M2.5 Mesh Mask is designed for hot weather and extended wear. It has a dual elastic strap system for added security and comfort.
11. Start Medications Early
Begin taking allergy medications two weeks before the expected start of the pollen season to get ahead of symptoms.
12. Try Nasal Rinses
Saline nasal rinses can help flush out pollen and other allergens from your nasal passages, providing relief.
13. Consider Immunotherapy
For severe allergies, allergy shots (immunotherapy) can desensitize your immune system to specific allergens over time.
14. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Incorporate foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, to help reduce allergy symptoms.
15. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help thin out mucus and flush out allergens from your system.
16. Avoid Triggers
Identify your specific allergy triggers and take steps to minimize exposure, such as avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times.
17. Manage Stress
Stress can exacerbate allergy symptoms, so practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
18. Clean Regularly
Vacuum and dust frequently to remove allergens from your living environment, and wash bedding in hot water to kill dust mites.
19. Consider Air Purifiers
High-quality air purifiers can help remove pollen and other allergens from the air in your home. This post may include affiliate links. For more info please see our Disclosure Policy.
Here are some of the highest-rated HEPA air purifiers for allergies:
- Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty: This is Wirecutter’s top pick overall. It’s powerful enough for large rooms, quiet, well-built, and affordable. It uses a true HEPA filter to capture allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
- Levoit Core 300S: Highly rated by Verywell Health and The Spruce for its excellent performance at removing particles and allergens. It has a true HEPA filter and is easy to use with smart features.
- Blueair Blue Pure 211+: CNET and Tom’s Guide recommend this for its outstanding particle removal, quiet operation, and energy efficiency. It uses a HEPA filter and is good for large rooms.
- Austin Air Allergy Machine: Specifically designed for allergy and asthma sufferers, it uses medical-grade HEPA and carbon filters to remove allergens, viruses, bacteria, and odors. It’s clinically proven but expensive.
- PuroAir HEPA 14: Amazon’s best seller uses a powerful HEPA 14 filter to capture 99.99% of allergens down to 0.1 microns, including pet dander, dust, and pollen. It covers large areas up to 1,115 sq ft.
Many expert reviews highlight the importance of true HEPA filtration for effectively removing common allergens from the air. Models from brands like Coway, Levoit, Blueair, Austin Air, and PuroAir that use certified HEPA filters tend to rank among the best for allergy relief.
Are You Sabotaging Your Gut Health? 8 Things to Stop Doing Now
Welcome to the world of IBS, where an average of 8% of people worldwide suffer from extreme digestive upset, bloating, gas, and other gut health issues. Whether you have been recently diagnosed or have been struggling with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for years, we understand how challenging and frustrating it can be.
That’s why we are here to share some valuable tips on what not to do if you want to keep your gut health in check. From avoiding trigger foods to adopting healthy habits, we have got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to take control of your gut health!
Read: Are You Sabotaging Your Gut Health? 8 Things to Stop Doing Now
What Can I Eat On The Low FODMAP Diet?
We bet you are asking yourself, what can I eat on the low FODMAP diet? It is the #1 question that we hear folks ask. This article is going to take you through the answers step-by-step, so that you will never be hungry – and be able to keep Your Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) triggers at bay. Click to read What Can I Eat On The Low FODMAP Diet?
10 Foods To Be Careful With If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome
re there times you eat something and either suddenly or a few hours later you find yourself bloated, uncomfortable and running to the bathroom? Here are 10 foods known to be problematic for many individuals who have Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS. Click for 10 Foods To Be Careful With If You Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome
