News - Navigating Allergy Season: Tips and Facts

As allergy season approaches, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has released its annual rankings of the most challenging cities for allergy sufferers. The rankings consider over-the-counter medicine usage, pollen counts, and the availability of allergy specialists. Boise, Idaho; San Diego; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Provo, Utah; and Rochester, New York, top this year's list due to their high pollen levels. Pollen, a fine powder released by plants for reproduction, is the primary allergen each season. Early spring witnesses a surge in tree pollen from birch, cedar, cottonwood, maple, elm, oak, and walnut. By late spring and early summer, pollens from grasses like Bermuda, Johnson, rye, and Kentucky bluegrass dominate. The season extends into late summer and early fall, with weed pollens contributing to respiratory discomfort. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology offers a crucial service by tracking pollen levels nationwide through a network of counting stations. This data is available online and can guide daily activities for those affected. Avoiding pollen exposure remains the cornerstone of allergy management. Keeping windows shut in homes and vehicles helps minimize indoor pollen levels. Protective clothing such as long sleeves can prevent skin contact with pollen and provide some sun protection. Upon returning indoors, changing clothes and daily showers are recommended to remove pollen residue. Hair protection, like hats or scarves worn outdoors, further reduces exposure. Additionally, saline rinses for eyes and noses can alleviate discomfort. Despite myths circulating on social media and endorsements by celebrities, certain home remedies, like consuming local honey, have been scientifically debunked. Notably, the pollen in honey doesn't typically trigger allergies. For effective treatment, over-the-counter nasal sprays are advised, but correct application is crucial. Healthcare professionals recommend tilting the spray outward, towards the ear, rather than vertical insertion to avoid nasal irritation. Oral antihistamines such as Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec are also options, though they may take longer to work. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant consulting an allergist, who might suggest advanced treatments to desensitize the immune response. The influence of climate change has heightened allergy concerns, as milder winters and extended growing seasons prolong pollen presence and intensity. The past year marked a notably severe allergy season, especially in the Southeastern United States. This report first appeared on April 19, 2025. The original author is no longer affiliated with The Associated Press.