Spring time brings warmer weather, blossoming flowers, and longer days, but it also marks the start of seasonal allergies for many people. This year, allergy season came early and is expected to last longer due to changes in climate, resulting in increased pollen production. The South, Southeast, and parts of the Midwest have the highest pollen counts in the nation, with cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Dallas experiencing the worst of it.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Wichita, Kansas is ranked as the worst city for seasonal allergies, followed by cities like Virginia Beach, Greenville, and Dallas. Climate change has also caused allergy season to lengthen in 83% of locations since 1970, with cities like Reno, Las Cruces, and Medford experiencing the longest seasons.
Pollen allergies can cause symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and swelling, with exposure to pollen potentially worsening asthma symptoms. Higher levels of CO2 in the atmosphere can lead to increased pollen production in plants, making allergies even more challenging for sufferers. Overall, early spring and longer allergy seasons are making it more difficult for the 80 million people in the US who suffer from seasonal allergies.
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