Did you know that North Carolina is a hotspot for seasonal allergies? In fact, Raleigh (#7) and Greensboro (#10) are ranked among the top ten most challenging cities in the U.S. for allergy sufferers. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) reports that over 100 million Americans grapple with allergies each year, with pollen being a significant trigger.
How Climate Change Is Fueling Longer Allergy Seasons
One of the primary drivers exacerbating allergies is climate change. With warmer temperatures, growing seasons are prolonged, leading plants to pollinate earlier in the spring and later into the fall. This extended pollen season results in persistent allergy symptoms. Additionally, rising temperatures enable allergenic plants to expand into new regions, potentially introducing allergies to previously unaffected populations. The combination of warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and increased flooding also fosters mold growth. Furthermore, elevated CO₂ levels boost the growth of allergenic plants like ragweed and birch, increasing both the quantity and potency of pollen. Climate change also contributes to poorer air quality, elevating ground-level ozone and air pollutants, which irritate the respiratory system and worsen allergy symptoms.
With allergy season in full swing, here are some proactive steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
- Track local pollen forecasts and limit outdoor activities during peak pollen hours.
- Use air purifiers to enhance indoor air quality.
- Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove accumulated pollen.
- Ensure proper home ventilation to minimize mold proliferation.
To effectively manage allergy symptoms, consider the following strategies:
- Minimize exposure to allergens by staying indoors during peak pollen times, keep windows closed, and use HEPA filters.
- Improve indoor air quality by using dehumidifiers, vacuuming regularly, and washing bedding weekly to reduce indoor allergens.
- Talk to your provider about the use of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and allergy eye drops can provide relief OR natural remedies such as saline nasal rinses, locally sourced honey, and herbal supplements like butterbur and quercetin which can help alleviate symptoms.
- Integrate diet and lifestyle support such as incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, staying hydrated, and managing stress to reduce flare-ups.
- Plan ahead by utilizing allergy apps to monitor pollen counts and starting medications or natural remedies before symptoms become severe.
Hormones and Allergies: The Hidden Connection
Emerging research also highlights the significant impact of hormone changes on allergies:
Estrogen – Elevated estrogen levels can increase histamine production, worsening allergy symptoms during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
Progesterone – This hormone can trigger immune responses, leading to congestion, mucus buildup, and skin flare-ups.
Cortisol – Chronic stress can deplete cortisol, making allergic reactions more difficult to control.
Thyroid – Hypothyroidism may exacerbate allergic reactions by promoting inflammation and slowing down immune response.
How to manage hormone-related allergy flare-ups:
- Track hormonal patterns to anticipate flare-ups.
- Take interventions (medication or natural remedies) before known triggers.
- Maintain an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s and vitamin C.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga and meditation.
- Consult healthcare providers for hormone therapy or personalized allergy management strategies.
Integrative Medical Clinic of NC offers in-depth personalized evaluation of allergy symptoms and causes and provides both hormone management and the Low Dose Allergy program treatment.
