Allergy season is coming, which brings some of the worst.
According to the American Lung Association, “changes in temperature and precipitation patterns allow plants and trees to grow in places that have never been seen before.” This means an increase in pollen counts, even new types of pollen.
The American Asthma and Allergy Foundation (AAFA) recently released its annual allergy report, which identifies the “most challenging cities” for people with seasonal allergies.
GoodRX says 19 drug approvals in 2024 have “a great clinical impact”
The report focuses on tree, grass and weed pollen counts throughout the year, as well as the use of over-the-counter allergic medicine and the availability of board-certified allergics and immunologists.
This year's report calls Wichita Kansas, the highest allergic capital for the third consecutive year, mainly due to its poorer tree and grass pollen than average. (iStock)
The 2025 report says Wichita, Kansas, is the highest allergic capital for the third consecutive year, largely due to its poorer than average trees and grass pollen.
Top 10 allergies in the capital
- Wichita, Kansas
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Richmond, Virginia
- Greenville, South Carolina
- Greensboro, North Carolina
Relieving honey and allergies: Are these two really together?
New pollen (and lots of pollen) can trigger Allergy Symptoms For those who have never suffered before.
According to the American Lung Association, “changes in temperature and precipitation patterns allow plants and trees to grow in places that have never been seen before.” (iStock)
Dr. Purvi Parikh, who specializes in infectious disease allergy and immunology at Langone at New York University, talks with Fox News Digital about the best ways to allergize with the seasons.
1. Stay on top of the drug
For those with seasonal allergies, Parikh recommends starting medication as soon as possible.
“One of the most important things we recommend is to use 24-hour antihistamines because they work longer and can really help manage symptoms,” she told Fox News Digital.
Eye drops and antihistamine nasal sprays can also help with itchy eyes and nasal congestion, respectively.
Research findings
“Another important thing to remember is that over-the-counter medication is that if you have difficulty breathing, such as coughing, wheezing, or tight chests, that's all signs that you may have asthma.”
In this case, she recommends that you see a medical professional to make sure you are using the right medication.
One expert advises: “One of the most important things we recommend is to use 24-hour antihistamines because they work longer and can really help manage symptoms.” (Getty Image)
2. do the laundry
When entering indoors after spending outdoor time outdoors, Parikh recommends changing clothes and taking a shower to wash away any pollen and reduce exposure.
Click here to get the Fox News app
Experts say washing the sheets in warm water once a week can also help limit exposure to allergens.
3. Pay attention to the schedule
With the highest pollen volume in the morning, Parikh said it would be best to stay indoors earlier in the day.
“For the same reason, close the windows in the early morning.”
9 With over-the-counter remedies, you can help you beat spring allergies
Pollen counts surged again in the afternoon and evening hours.
According to AAFA, different plants and trees release pollen at different times, so symptoms may vary depending on where you live.
Different plants and trees release pollen at different times, so symptoms may vary depending on where you live. (iStock)
Trees usually produce the most pollen from February to April.
However, in some southern states, they can be as early as December or January and start producing allergens multiple times a year.
4. Seek care as needed
While the nose is stuffy and dry eyes are often chalked, Parikh points out that other factors may play a role.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
“Colds and viruses She told Fox News Digital that allergies can have many of the same symptoms.
“Allnesses tend to last longer…so if you feel you’re sick throughout April and May… you might be more likely to be allergic.”
For more health articles, please visit www.foxnews.com/health
Parick advises those who are not sure whether their symptoms are caused by allergies or illnesses.
