Climate change, the long-term shift of weather patterns, is an often-discussed topic, but few people realize it affects the length and severity of allergy seasons.
How Does Climate Change Affect Allergy Season?
The 2025 Allergy Capitals Report, released by The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), identified two main ways that climate change affects allergy seasons:
- Season length. The report stated that pollen season starts approximately 20 days sooner and lasts 10 days longer compared to reports from 30 years ago. They used a pollen emission model and future climate data projections to estimate that the season will start between 10 and 40 days sooner and last five to 15 days longer by the end of the century.
- Allergy severity. The research also found that tree pollen counts and the severity of allergic reactions to that pollen are more severe than in previous years. They linked the increase to the rising carbon dioxide levels associated with climate change.
Allergy severity will vary by location. The report listed St. Louis as 67th on the list of allergy levels in metropolitan areas, with one being the most severe, and 100 being better than average. Due to its proximity to St. Louis, St. Peters should experience the same levels.
How Can I Manage My Allergies?
Shifting seasons may change your allergies, but that doesn’t mean you can’t manage them. Implement a few of the following strategies to minimize your contact with pollen:
- Schedule outdoor activities. Check the local pollen count and schedule outdoor activities for when the count is low.
- Clean your home. Wash your bedding, sweep and mop your floors, vacuum carpeting and change your air filter regularly.
- Wear sunglasses or goggles. Sunglasses can help protect your eyes when you’re headed to the park or just out to run some errands. If you’re doing yardwork, consider wearing goggles for extra protection.
In addition to avoiding allergens, you can minimize your symptoms with daily medications like decongestants, antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops and mast cell inhibitors. Immunotherapy is another treatment option for long-term relief. It works by gradually introducing an allergen through shots or drops to help your immune system build tolerance.
For more information on managing your allergies or to schedule an allergy test, contact Midwest ENT Centre today.