Allergy Season Arrives Early and Stays Longer Due to Climate Change

As allergy season approaches, individuals across the United States are experiencing symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes sooner and for longer periods. Experts attribute this shift to climate change, which is extending the seasons conducive to pollen production. Physicians recommend beginning allergy medication two to four weeks prior to the onset of symptoms for maximum effectiveness. A variety of treatments exist, from over-the-counter antihistamines and corticosteroids to prescription options for more severe cases. Aside from medication, lifestyle adjustments such as monitoring pollen forecasts can help. Dr. Devang Doshi of Corewell Health notes a trend of earlier and prolonged allergy seasons in recent years. The rise in pollen levels poses heightened risk, especially to vulnerable populations like older adults and individuals with respiratory problems. Recent research indicates this could lead to more severe health implications, urging precautionary measures such as starting medications early and considering immunotherapy for long-term symptom management. From a broader perspective, the impact of climate change on allergy seasons exemplifies the interconnectedness of environmental changes and public health challenges. It's a clarion call for increased awareness and preparedness. This analysis has been reviewed by artificial intelligence.