Why Your Allergies Feel Worse This Year—and How to Manage Them Effectively

Climate Change Is Making Allergy Seasons More Severe

If you’ve noticed more sneezing, itching, or congestion this spring, warmer temperatures and rising CO₂ levels are likely to blame. These factors are extending allergy seasons, increasing pollen production, and making symptoms more persistent than ever.

New Allergies in Adulthood Are on the Rise

Lisa Olson-Gugerty, a teaching professor of public health at Syracuse University and a family nurse practitioner, explains that first-time allergies in adulthood are becoming increasingly common. She notes,

"People who have never had allergies before are suddenly developing them."

Why This Year Feels Different

• Overlapping pollen seasons: Trees and plants are pollinating earlier and in overlapping cycles, keeping immune systems activated for longer periods.
• More irritating pollen: Pollution exacerbates pollen’s effects, making it more likely to trigger severe reactions.
• Thunderstorm asthma: Storms can break pollen into microscopic particles, which penetrate deep into the lungs and worsen asthma symptoms.

How to Tell If It’s Allergies or a Cold

Olson-Gugerty advises using these clues to differentiate between allergies and infections:

• Allergies: Itching, watery eyes, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
• Infection: Fever, body aches, and fatigue.

Children’s Allergies Often Go Unnoticed

Kids may not communicate their symptoms clearly, leading parents to overlook allergy-related issues. Watch for these signs:

• Mouth breathing
• Unusual fatigue or irritability
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Frequent ear infections or asthma flare-ups

The #1 Mistake Allergy Sufferers Make

Olson-Gugerty warns that delaying treatment is a common pitfall. Allergy medications work best when taken before symptoms peak. Waiting until discomfort is severe often leads to unnecessary suffering.

Source: Syracuse University