It’s the trees. That’s why your eyes are itchy and your nose is sneezing.

As spring unfolds, many people are already feeling the effects of allergies, with tree pollen at alarming levels. The Weather Channel forecasts a dramatic worsening of conditions, exacerbating the struggle for approximately 100 million Americans who suffer from allergies according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Notably, pollen levels have become a pressing public health concern, particularly in urban areas like Baltimore, which, while averaging on the foundation's pollen index, is not immune to the increased prevalence of allergy symptoms. The report indicates that climate change significantly impacts pollen exposure. Warmer temperatures enable longer growing seasons, prompting an earlier start to pollen release, which is increasingly problematic for allergy sufferers. Dr. Jonathan Matz, an allergy specialist, highlights that urban settings trap heat, thereby amplifying not only heat but also air pollution and pollen production. This creates a 'perfect storm' of conditions exacerbating allergy symptoms. Interestingly, mitigation efforts along city landscapes may have contributed to worsening allergy symptoms. The practice of planting predominantly male trees—often referred to as botanical sexism—has resulted in increased pollen counts, as these trees were favored for their cleanliness over female trees that produce litter. Baltimore's parks department employs a strategy of using monoecious trees, which still propagate significant pollen through their branches. Residents of the D.C. area are similarly affected. Family physician Dr. Darlene Lawrence from Unity Health Care advises precautionary measures, particularly for children who are prone to allergies. Simple behavior changes, such as changing clothes after outdoor play, can help minimize exposure to pollen. As the allergy season continues to unfold—with tree pollen soon giving way to grass and weed allergies—understanding symptoms is crucial. While allergies might mimic the signs of a cold—such as sneezing and congestion—those suffering from allergies will not experience fever, unlike those with viral infections. As pollen levels peak this week, health professionals recommend strategies to mitigate symptoms, from over-the-counter medications to, crucially, consulting a doctor if wheezing occurs. In conclusion, as urban areas blossom and climates change, allergy sufferers must adjust to longer and more intense allergy seasons. As public awareness grows, cities will need to reassess landscaping practices alongside climate policies to alleviate allergy management within their communities.