Climate Change and Allergies – EARTH MONTH – A GREENER YOU

Climate Change and Allergies – EARTH MONTH – A GREENER YOU

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Spring Allergies Are Worse Than Ever—Is Climate Change to Blame?

Ahh, spring is finally here! The days are longer, the flowers are blooming, and fresh air fills our lungs. But for many of us, spring also brings something less pleasant—sneezing, itchy eyes, and nonstop allergy symptoms. If it feels like your allergies are worse than ever, you’re not imagining it. Climate change may be making things worse.

Climate change isn’t just about melting ice caps and extreme weather—it’s affecting our daily lives, including allergy season. Warmer temperatures cause plants to bloom earlier and produce pollen for a longer period, extending allergy season. Increased carbon dioxide levels fuel plant growth, leading to even higher pollen production, especially from allergy-triggering plants like ragweed. On top of that, air pollution worsens allergies by combining smog and airborne particles with pollen, making it more irritating and challenging to breathe.

Climate change may feel overwhelming, but small, everyday actions add up. Use reusable bags and water bottles. Walk, bike, or carpool to cut down on emissions. Try Meatless Mondays to lower your carbon footprint. Support local and sustainable businesses.

Spring allergies can be frustrating, but there are ways to manage them:

  • 1

    Reduce Exposure

    • Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from getting inside.
    • Use air purifiers and change HVAC filters regularly.
    • Shower and change clothes after spending time outside
  • 2

    Check Pollen Counts

    • Track daily pollen levels and stay indoors when they’re high.
    • Wear sunglasses and a hat to keep pollen off your face.
  • 3

    Medication Options

    • Over-the-counter antihistamines (like loratadine, cetirizine, or fexofenadine) can help.
    • Nasal sprays (like fluticasone or mometasone) reduce inflammation.
    • Decongestants (like pseudoephedrine) relieve stuffiness but should be used in the short term.
  • 4

    Natural Remedies

    • Rinse your sinuses with saline (using a Neti pot or spray).
    • Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to stay hydrated.
    • Try local honey (some believe it helps build tolerance, though the evidence is mixed).
  • 5

    See an Allergist

    • If symptoms persist, allergy testing can pinpoint triggers.
    • Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may help in the long term.

Join Me Every Sunday for Earth Month!

Throughout Earth Month, I’ll be sharing simple ways to live greener and reduce your impact on the environment.  Each Sunday morning, I will post a new environmental blog, so check in each week. Small steps can lead to big changes—for our health, our planet, and even our allergies!

Filed Under: Allergies, climate, climate change, Health Update, Health Update With Robin Stoloff, Living Well, Living well Robin Stoloff, spring allergies
Categories: Community, Health Update, Lifestyle, Lists

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