For allergy and asthma sufferers, climate change means worsening symptoms and a harsher season

Newswise – ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Illinois (APRIL 11, 2023) – If you suffer from asthma or nasal allergies, you have probably noticed that the pollen season worsens and negatively affects your symptoms. Experts from the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) warn that the pollen season is starting earlier and lasting longer than in decades past. Climate changes during this period contribute to this phenomenon, with warmer temperatures, longer growing seasons and reduced air quality. Therefore, people with allergies and asthma, and their healthcare providers, should adjust their management plans accordingly.

New search from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture shows that “pollen seasons start 20 days earlier, last 10 days longer and contain 21% more pollen than in 1990”.

“It’s a pretty simple equation,” says allergist Kathleen May, president of the ACAAI. “More pollen means more days of suffering with asthma and allergy symptoms. People across the country know they need to start allergy and asthma medication sooner because symptoms Occur earlier and last longer. As allergists, we see our patients sneeze, wheeze and drip more. But we have the tools to help.

May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, a time to shine the spotlight on asthma and allergies, as well as the latest news and important developments. Many people don’t know that allergists are experts in the treatment of asthma and that nasal allergies and asthma are closely related. Allergists are specialists who can help control asthma symptoms.

If you have a pollen allergy and are breathing pollen-rich air, you may experience symptoms such as:

• To sneeze
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• tearing
• Itchy throat and eyes
• Wheezing

Pollen can also make asthma symptoms worse, including increased coughing and wheezing. Allergists recommend avoiding pollen if you have allergic reactions.

Two immunotherapy options are available for people with severe pollen allergies:

• Allergy shots can help your body become less sensitive to pollens.
• Tablets that dissolve under the tongue are now available by prescription for people with grass and ragweed allergies. These medications should be started 12 weeks before the expected onset of symptoms.

Nasal allergies and asthma are linked, and many people suffer from both. Allergic asthma – where allergies trigger asthma symptoms – is the most common type of asthma. Research shows that the frequency of children with nasal allergies who also have asthma can be as high as 80%. Recent research has also shown that around 75% of adults with asthma between the ages of 20 and 40 have at least one allergy.

“What many people don’t realize is that the same things that trigger your seasonal ‘hay fever’ symptoms – things like pollen, dust mites, mold and pet dander – can also cause asthma symptoms,” says Dr May. “If you have allergies and are wheezing or coughing, an allergist can determine if you also have asthma. Allergists are asthma treatment specialists and can develop a treatment plan for you. help cope with both conditions.

For more information on asthma and allergy treatment, and to locate an allergist in your area, visit AllergyAndAsthmarelief.org

About the ACAAI

ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergist-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and friendliness in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, pinterest, instagram And Twitter.