No Relief In Sight For Spring Allergies
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Kansas City, MO - Allergy seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer. Allergy sufferers may be hoping to get some relief from tree pollen by May - but then it's time for grass pollen to produce misery. And if your reaction to the different pollens seems to have worsened during recent years, you're not alone. Some allergy specialists say mild winters and global warming are to blame.
Dr. Jay Portnoy with Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics says allergy seasons have been growing longer and pollen counts higher nationwide over the last five to ten years, as carbon dioxide levels have risen. He says plants thrive on more CO2.
"And as a consequence, patients who used to have mild increases and decreases in their allergy symptoms at this time of the year are now experiencing more-intense symptoms."
But Dr. Portnoy says there's no reason to suffer any more; there are more over-the-counter and prescription medications available today to help people with allergies breathe easier.
Dr. Portnoy says allergy symptoms aren't limited to sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. He says pollen can trigger asthma and make breathing difficult.
"Consult with your local board-certified allergist to find out what you're allergic to, get the appropriate treatment and breathe better. There's no reason to suffer any more."
And hopefully you can breathe a sigh of relief before ragweed season starts in mid to late August.
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