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Why Your Allergies Feel Worse Than Ever

As springtime begins to peak, millions of Americans are finding themselves battling the all-too-familiar symptoms of seasonal allergies. But if it feels like your allergies are worse this year, you’re not imagining it. According to scientists, rising temperatures are largely to blame for a worsening seasonal allergy season.

Warmer temperatures and other environmental shifts have made allergens like tree pollen, ragweed and mold more abundant and more intense. Forecasters predict the pollen season will be extended by several weeks in some parts of North America. Allergens are also reproducing at higher rates, leading to longer and more severe allergy seasons. Even allergists are reporting an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment for allergies.

(MORE: How Spring Weather Can Affect Your Health)

But what’s causing this? It’s a combination of human activity and environmental factors.

More airborne allergens also mean more asthma attacks for the millions of Americans who suffer from allergic asthma. An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) study estimated that up to 60,000 asthma-related emergency department visits are linked to pollen each year, with that number projected to increase by 2090.

So, how can you combat these worsening allergies? While there is no cure, there are steps you can take to minimize their effects. Check your local pollen levels regularly, improve your indoor air quality with air purifiers, and follow your doctor’s advice on medications.

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