As the weather has warmed up, many Bay Area residents have noticed an uptick in their allergy symptoms–the itchy eyes, the stuffy nose, the headache. The reason may have little to do with your outdoor activities and more to do with changes to the climate.
Emerging research suggests that intensifying climate change is correlated with increased allergy symptoms for seasonal allergy and asthma sufferers as well as a longer and stronger allergy season. On top of this, California’s wet winter has further exacerbated the issue–heavy rain usually suppresses pollen, but after long periods of suppression coupled with increased vegetation growth, the subsequent warmer, drier days can result in higher pollen counts than normal.
Dr. Jyothi Tirumalasetty is a medical researcher and clinician at the Stanford Health Care Allergy, Asthma, and Immunodeficiency Clinic and has been studying the effects of changes in the climate on allergy symptoms.
“Trends in North America have shown this lengthening of the pollen season, spring starting earlier, pollen coming out earlier, and having higher concentrations [of pollen] in general,” said Tirumalasetty.
Tirmualasetty began looking into this issue through her research on sustainability in health care, specifically on the relationship between asthma inhalers and climate change. Some types of asthma inhalers can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, people who suffer from allergy-related asthma or other forms of asthma often belong to groups that are already disproportionately affected by environmental concerns like climate change. The connection between the climate, the environment, and the agonies of allergy and asthma sufferers inspired her to begin her recent research on the connection between pollen seasons and climate change.
Many Bay Area residents suffering from increased seasonal allergy symptoms right now are likely having a reaction to pollen. However, another culprit may be present in residents’ gardens and homes: mold.
“It’s a significant allergen, and it’s present in the air, and it acts similarly to pollen where it causes allergies and asthma,” said Tirumalesetty. “Along with the outdoor air quality, you see indoor air quality changing.”
Due to the presence of allergens inside and outside the home, Tirumalasetty has a few tips for people looking to address their allergy symptoms.
What can you do?
First and foremost, if you are experiencing significant allergy symptoms, Tirumalesetty recommends that you seek medical care if possible. Doctors specializing in allergy care can help you identify specific allergens that may be bothering you most and provide medication or treatments that are not available over the counter, like allergy shots.
For those unable to access a health care provider, Tirumalasetty recommends over-the-counter medications, like nasal sprays and allergy pills. Additionally, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help mitigate the issue.
If you notice the majority of your symptoms are related to pollen, checking the pollen count each day can help you plan ahead. On very high pollen days, closing the window and opting for indoor activities may be the best solution. Tirumalasetty said that wearing a mask while gardening or working outside may provide some relief.
If you have been outside on a high pollen day, make sure to shower off the pollen when you come home and stay on top of vacuuming. Allergy-proof bed covers can be a relatively inexpensive way to lower your exposure. If you are able, keep a fan or air-purifying device running. Some residents may also be eligible for an air-filtration unit provided by Alameda County through its Clean Air Filtration Program.
