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Bad Allergies? 4 Reasons Why Your Seasonal Allergies May Keep Getting Worse

27 February 2017 by Joann Dunn

Seasonal allergies affect nearly 30 percent of the adult population. When you're talking children, the number is much higher. Not only can allergies trigger cold-like symptoms, they can cause rashes and breathing problems in those with asthma and other breathing conditions. Allergies are no fun, and they're only going to get worse. According to a 2002 study, pollen counts will double by the year 2040, and allergy attacks will increase right along with it. Following are four reasons why seasonal allergies are going to continue to get worse over the next several decades.

Climate Change

Climate change is the leading factor driving the increase in seasonal allergies. Warmer temperatures along with more CO2 in the air, a compound that plants breathe like we breathe oxygen, create the perfect environment for plants to grow and thrive. What's more, climate change is lengthening the growing season in many areas, including the United States. As climate change warms up our planet, these side effects are only going to get worse. 

More Sensitivity

People are becoming more sensitive to allergens, and age has a lot to do with it. You see, the longer you're exposed to an allergen, the more likely you're going to be sensitive to it. As the population continues to grow older, more and more people are going to complain about allergies. There is a genetic component as well. If your parents have allergies, you're more likely to have them too. 

More Pollen

As of right now, the growing season is approximately three weeks longer than it was in past years. An earlier and longer spring means that more pollen gets released into the air, triggering seasonal allergies. When a sensitive person breathes in pollen, their body reacts by trying to fight off the invader. Your sniffles, sneezes and itchy eyes are all symptoms of pollen in the air. 

Mild Weather

Mild weather is increasing allergens, but it's also increasing the amount of time people are exposed to them. Most people like to spend time outdoors on nice days. Warmer weather means that there will be more nice days for people to enjoy. More time spent outside equals more exposure to pollen and other allergens. 

The allergy season is getting longer and more intense. If you suffer from allergies, talk to your doctor and allergist today to come up with a plan to get you through the allergy season with as little trouble as possible. To learn more, speak with someone like Diane L. Ozog, MD, SC.

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