The arrival of warmer spring weather offers a respite from the harsh cold experienced across much of the United States during the winter months. However, this change brings a less welcome consequence for millions suffering from seasonal allergies. As pollen levels soar, many individuals face symptoms such as sneezing, headaches, watery eyes, and congestion, prompting them to retreat back indoors.
In Atlanta, pollen counts have reached record highs, with 14,801 grains per cubic meter emanating from pine, oak, and birch trees. Similarly, Houston has reported its highest pollen levels since records began in 2013. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) anticipates that 2025 will witness another challenging year for seasonal allergy sufferers, particularly in the southern United States. This growing issue affects nearly one-third of U.S. adults and a quarter of children.
The intensifying allergy symptoms are attributed to climate change, as warming temperatures cause pollen to appear earlier in the year, last longer, and occur in higher concentrations. According to Kenneth Mendez, CEO of the AAFA, springtime pollen allergens from trees are now emerging 20 days earlier than they did three decades ago. Rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide are prompting plants to produce more pollen and sustaining the conditions necessary for pollen production.
Many people report developing allergies for the first time or experiencing worsening symptoms, which is attributed to the increased “allergic load” driven by climate change, as noted by Mendez. While seasonal allergies may be a mere nuisance for most, they contribute to a significant economic impact due to lost productivity, as conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis lead to billions of dollars in economic costs each year through lost workdays, medications, and medical visits.
For some, pollen poses more serious health risks, causing complications or exacerbating existing health issues. Research indicates that tree pollen allergies account for between 25,000 and 50,000 emergency room visits annually, with two-thirds of those cases affecting individuals under the age of 18. As pollen counts continue to rise, more people with less sensitivity are discovering the adverse effects of these small particles. Many find that measures like closing doors and windows are insufficient to prevent the intrusion of tiny pollen grains.
If current trends persist, Mendez predicts an increase in the number of individuals affected by allergies. The primary challenge for allergy sufferers arises from their bodies’ heightened responses to harmless allergens. While these typically result in mild symptoms, they can occasionally trigger severe complications such as asthma attacks or, in rare instances, anaphylaxis. For most, pollen allergies present more of an inconvenience, yet they are pervasive enough to infiltrate indoor environments through various means.
