One in three adults and one in three kids deal with seasonal allergies each year.
Doctors say this year’s allergy season is arriving earlier, lasting longer and hitting harder than in years past.
Experts say it’s not just pollen. Warmer temperatures and higher carbon dioxide levels are giving plants a head start on blooming and producing more pollen than before.
That means more days of itchy eyes, sneezing, and coughs for millions of Americans.
“Pollen allergies now are starting about 20 days earlier in North America,” said Dr. Samantha Ahdoot, a pediatrician at the UVA School of Medicine.
Scientists say warmer temperatures are extending growing seasons and that’s changing when pollen hits.
“The annual pollen count has also gone up. It’s about 20 percent higher than it used to be,” explained Ahdoot.
Studies link the increase not just to more heat but also to higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which “feeds” pollen production and allows plants to generate more pollen overall.
“Anything that irritates the lungs can cause asthma exacerbations,” said Ahdoot.
Air pollution can inflame airways and make them more sensitive, triggering asthma flare-ups, particularly in children, who breathe faster and take in more air pollution per pound of body weight than adults.
The American Lung Association says poor air quality can lead to coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulties, even in people without a history of asthma.
Doctors emphasize that it’s not only outdoor air that counts. Indoor air quality matters too: When windows stay shut, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can build up, making symptoms worse.
Doctors say change HVAC filters regularly, use HEPA filtration if possible, vacuum with a HEPA filter, shower and change clothes after outdoor play and monitor daily pollen counts.
If you or your child has a lingering cough, constant congestion or sudden wheezing, doctors say don’t assume it’s just a cold. And if symptoms seem worse this year, it may be time to update your allergy or asthma plan.
You can also track daily pollen levels through local weather or allergy apps.