Allergy Seasons Are Getting Worse — Here’s How to Stay Ahead and Breathe Easy

If you’re finding yourself sneezing more, rubbing itchy eyes, or battling congestion longer than usual, you’re definitely not alone. Allergy season isn’t just starting earlier — it’s lasting longer and hitting harder than ever before. And unfortunately, this trend is here to stay.

What’s Behind the Growing Allergy Problem?

Climate change is the big culprit. Rising temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels are basically supercharging plants to produce more pollen — and to do it earlier in the year. Research shows that since the 1990s, pollen counts across North America have jumped about 20%, allergy seasons start nearly three weeks earlier, and they drag on longer than before.

So, if you feel like your spring allergies begin right after Valentine’s Day and linger well into summer, that’s because they actually do.

How Does This Affect Your Health?

More pollen means more inflammation in your nasal passages and sinuses, which can cause all the classic allergy symptoms: sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, headaches, and fatigue. But allergies aren’t just annoying — they can impact your quality of life by disrupting sleep and lowering your focus at work or school.

Worse, untreated allergies can lead to complications like sinus infections or exacerbate asthma symptoms, potentially leading to more serious respiratory issues.

How Can You Prepare?

1. Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until you’re sneezing nonstop to start treatment. If you usually suffer in the fall, consider starting your allergy medications in August. For spring allergies, think about beginning treatment as early as February.
2. Use Targeted Therapies: Oral antihistamines are a start, but nasal sprays, eye drops, or inhalers might be necessary if your symptoms are stubborn.
3. See an Allergy Specialist: If your allergies aren’t responding to over-the-counter meds, you might be a good candidate for allergy shots or immunotherapy, which can retrain your immune system to tolerate allergens better over time.

Bottom Line

Allergy seasons are shifting — getting longer, stronger, and tougher to manage. But with the right preparation and treatment plan, you don’t have to suffer through it year after year.

Don’t let longer, harsher allergy seasons keep you down. If you’re struggling with persistent allergy symptoms, Dr. Tritt is here to help with personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Call us today at (555) 123-4567 or visit www.drtrittclinic.com to schedule your appointment and take control of your allergies before the next season hits.

Author

Ramie A. Tritt, MD Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.