Is allergy season worse this year? What to know, how to get relief
Spring kicks off this month, and with it come seasonal allergies for millions of Americans.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 25% of adults and nearly 21% of children in the U.S. have a seasonal allergy.
The CDC notes that climate change can impact the length and severity of allergy season.
Research by Climate Central found that "climate change contributes to earlier, longer, worse allergy seasons for millions in the U.S. that suffer from seasonal allergies to pollen -- including about one in every five children."
The climate research nonprofit additionally found that "87% (172) of 198 U.S. cities analyzed since 1970" have experienced an increase in freeze-free days each year, giving plants more time to grow and release pollen.
"Research has definitely shown that the seasons are indeed expanding," Dr. William Reisacher, an otolaryngic allergist with Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, told ABC News previously. "We're seeing longer pollinating seasons. We're seeing higher levels of pollen."
How to get relief from allergies
ABC News chief medical correspondent Dr. Tara Narula shared tips for allergy season on "Good Morning America" Wednesday, saying that one of the key ways to get ahead is to prepare at least two weeks before the onset of symptoms and discuss preparations with your doctor or an allergist, as well as check pollen counts regularly.
"It's all about preparation early," Narula said. "You want to start before the pollen is in the air and the season really begins."
At home, Narula recommends taking these steps:
- Use HEPA filters
- Keep doors and windows closed on high pollen days to reduce the spread of pollen.
- Take showers and wash clothes after being outside. Wash bedding regularly.
- Use N95 masks during peak pollen periods.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses outside.
"Usually, the early morning hours and midday are going to be worse. You want to go outside in the later part of the day when there's less pollen," Narula said, adding, "If you have a pet, wipe them down [and] wash them once a week."
When turning to medications for relief, Narula recommends that people start with over-the-counter nasal sprays, decongestants and antihistamines.
If allergy symptoms persist after two to four weeks, Narula suggests consulting with your doctor and considering prescription medications.
How to tell the difference between a cold and allergies
The common cold and seasonal allergies share similar symptoms, such as congestion, coughing, sneezing, a headache, or fatigue, but there are differences, too.
If you have a fever, sore throat, green or yellow-colored nasal discharge, or symptoms that worsen over days, you might have a cold. Common colds also start quickly and dissipate within a couple of weeks.
If you have clear nasal discharge, wheezing, itchy eyes or nose, and symptoms that come and go for longer periods like months, you may have seasonal allergies.
Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about any symptoms you or your child may have.
