Climate change is stretching allergy season and driving up pollen levels. A doctor shares what you can do right now to get ahead of it.
CLEVELAND — If your eyes are watering and your nose won’t stop running, you’re not imagining it. Allergy season is getting longer, more intense, and harder to manage — and climate change is a big reason why.
“Climate change is affecting allergy season. It’s causing allergy season to be lengthened longer and it’s also increasing pollen concentrations. So it is true that climate change really does have an effect on our allergies,” says Dr. Jennifer Caudle, a family physician and associate professor at Rowan University.
And if you’re already suffering, you may have waited too long to start treatment.
Start your medication before symptoms hit
This is one of the most common mistakes allergy sufferers make. Most people reach for medication only after symptoms appear — but that approach makes the drugs less effective.
“A lot of times people wait until they get the allergy symptoms to start taking medications. Actually, your allergy medicines will work better and hopefully you’ll have more relief if you start taking your allergy medicines before your allergy symptoms start,” Dr. Caudle says.
If you know allergy season typically hits you hard, start your medication now — even if you feel fine.
Check pollen counts daily
Before heading outside, check the pollen count in your area. A quick Google search for “pollen counts” plus your city will show you current levels. On high-pollen days, consider adjusting outdoor activities or limiting your time outside.
It’s tempting to let fresh spring air into your home and car — but that fresh air often comes loaded with pollen.
“Keep those windows closed. I know this is a time of year where the weather’s getting nice. We want that fresh air, but oftentimes it just brings in pollen. So in your house, in your car, keep those windows closed,” Dr. Caudle advises.
Shower after being outside
Pollen clings to your hair, skin, and clothing. After spending time outdoors — especially after yard work — change your clothes and shower before settling in for the evening.
“Take your clothes off and jump in the shower to kind of rinse that pollen off your body — wash the pollen out of your hair,” Dr. Caudle says. “Wear a mask and sunglasses. This is where our masks come into play too — sunglasses will help keep pollen out of your upper airways.”
Also, remove your shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen inside.
You can develop allergies as an adult
Never had allergies before? That doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Many adults develop allergies later in life — including Dr. Caudle herself.
“You absolutely can get allergies as an adult. That is not uncommon. So if you’re saying, ‘this can’t be allergies’ — well, perhaps it could be. If you’re not able to control your allergy symptoms on your own, or you’re not sure what’s really going on — that’s definitely the time to talk to your doctor,” she says.
Don’t just push through it
Untreated allergies are more than an inconvenience. They can affect your ability to think clearly, stay focused, and function at your best — at any age.
“Treating allergies is very important because when allergies are left untreated, it can cause us to be sort of foggy, tired, sluggish — it can impair concentration. This goes for kids and adults,” Dr. Caudle says.
There are many effective over-the-counter and prescription options available. Talk to your doctor about what works best for you.
