Are Allergies Getting Worse? Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Allergy Season

Are allergies getting worse?

Yes—unfortunately, they are. Climate change is playing a major role in the worsening of allergies. As global temperatures rise, we're seeing longer growing seasons for allergen-producing plants like grasses, trees, and weeds. Not only are these plants releasing pollen for extended periods, but studies also show that the pollen itself is becoming more potent. This increase in both pollen quantity and allergenicity means a greater risk of triggering allergic reactions—and more misery for allergy sufferers.

Climate change and allergies

Climate change is having a growing impact on the 80 million people in the U.S. who suffer from allergies—and that number continues to rise. As global temperatures increase, so does the length and intensity of allergy seasons. Research has shown that in some regions, plant growing seasons are extending by up to 16 days, allowing allergen-producing plants like trees, grasses, and weeds to release pollen for much longer periods of time. This results in extended exposure for allergy sufferers, leading to longer-lasting and more severe allergy symptoms.

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But climate change affects more than just pollen. Warmer temperatures are also linked to an increase in extreme weather events such as hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and longer monsoon seasons. These shifts in weather patterns increase humidity levels and create the perfect environment for mold growth—both indoors and outdoors. Mold spores, like pollen, are potent allergens that can trigger symptoms in those with allergies and asthma. After storms or floods, mold growth can linger in homes, schools, and public buildings, creating long-term exposure risks.

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Additionally, climate change has a direct effect on air quality. Hotter temperatures contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog, both of which worsen respiratory health. Increased levels of airborne pollutants can inflame the airways, making it harder to breathe—especially for children, the elderly, and those with asthma. Poor air quality days are becoming more common in many parts of the country, often leading to increased emergency room visits and hospitalizations for asthma-related issues.

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The health implications are serious. According to the CDC, over 13 million school days were missed due to asthma-related issues. Children are particularly vulnerable, as their developing lungs are more sensitive to environmental triggers. With allergy seasons starting earlier and lasting longer, families are seeing a noticeable increase in symptoms like sneezing, congestion, wheezing, and fatigue.

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As climate patterns continue to shift, it's becoming more important than ever for allergy and asthma sufferers to stay informed and prepared. Monitoring pollen counts, improving indoor air quality, and seeking long-term treatment options—such as allergy immunotherapy—can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life, even as environmental conditions continue to evolve.

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Impact on Health

The impact that climate change has is not just on allergies, but can affect overall health. We explore more into this below. 

Air pollution and allergies

Air pollution is a significant trigger for asthma and allergic reactions. As climate change contributes to more frequent high-ozone and poor air quality days, the risk of severe asthma attacks increases—especially in urban areas. Polluted air carries fine particles and allergens that can inflame the respiratory system, leading to a spike in symptoms. This often results in more missed school and work days, a heavier reliance on asthma medications, and a greater strain on healthcare systems during high-pollution periods.

Increased mold growth due to climate change

The rise in mold growth, another hidden consequence of climate change, is also a major health concern. . Warmer temperatures and increased humidity create ideal conditions for mold to thrive—both indoors and outdoors. As mold spores become more prevalent in the air, they pose a serious threat to individuals with mold allergies or respiratory sensitivities. Mold is known for its high allergenicity, and exposure can lead to chronic allergy symptoms, sinus infections, and even asthma flare-ups in vulnerable populations.

What are allergies?

Allergies are a common and often chronic condition that occurs when the immune system overreacts to substances that are typically harmless to most people. These substances—called allergens—can include pollen, pet dander, mold spores, dust mites, certain foods, insect stings, and more. When someone with allergies is exposed to an allergen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat and triggers a defensive response. This reaction can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, skin rashes, and even more severe responses like anaphylaxis in some cases.

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Understanding what causes allergies and how they affect the body is essential to managing symptoms effectively and improving quality of life.

Common allergy symptoms

Not sure if your symptoms are caused by allergies? Allergies can mimic other conditions like colds or sinus infections, but there are some telltale signs to look out for. Below are some of the most common allergy symptoms that may indicate your immune system is reacting to an allergen:

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• Sneezing or coughing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Headaches
• Nasal congestion or facial pressure
• Sore throat
• Fatigue

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If you're experiencing any combination of these symptoms—especially if they occur seasonally or after exposure to pets, dust, or pollen—it might be time to consider allergy testing.

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Allergy treatment and preventions

While efforts to slow down climate change are ongoing, its impact on allergy season is already being felt—longer growing seasons and increased allergen levels make allergy prevention more important than ever. 

Allergy Prevention

Taking steps to reduce your exposure to allergens can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life year-round. Here are some effective ways to prevent and control allergies this year:

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• Use HEPA filters in your home. Upgrade your HVAC and vacuum filters to HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which can trap up to 99% of airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.

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• Wash your bedding regularly. Clean sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot, soapy water at least once a week to kill dust mites and remove pollen buildup.

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• Change clothes and shower after being outdoors. Pollen can stick to your skin, hair, and clothing. Change clothes at the door and take a shower to wash off any lingering allergens.

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• Wipe down your pets. Pollen and other allergens can cling to your pet’s fur and paws. Wipe them down with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes when they come in from outside.

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• Keep windows and doors closed. As tempting as a cool breeze may be, open windows allow pollen and other allergens to enter your home. Use air conditioning with a clean filter instead.

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By following these simple allergy prevention strategies, you can reduce indoor allergen exposure and stay ahead of your allergy symptoms—especially during peak allergy seasons.

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Allergy Treatments

While you can use short-term allergy treatments to temporarily treat allergy symptoms, the best way to treat allergies (especially if they’re only going to get worse from here) is to treat the root cause of your allergies with long-term allergy treatments such as allergy immunotherapy. 

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At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, we offer three types of allergy immunotherapy including:

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Allergy Drops: An effective and easy way to keep up with allergy treatment. Three drops of customized treatment are placed under the tongue daily to begin retraining the immune system to not react to the allergens. This is a safe and convenient way to treat your allergies. Allergy drops come in 4 different flavors and are great for kids and require minimal visits to the clinic. 

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Allergy Shots: Allergy shots are also an effective way of treating allergies. It is the same science behind allergy drops, but with weekly or biweekly injections in our clinics. For those who want to stay on a routine or schedule, this is a great option.

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ExACT Immunoplasty: ExACT is a new and innovative treatment that actually uses intralymphatic immunotherapy to treat the root of allergens. This means that with three injections patients can experience a sped up version of allergy shots. Studies show that ExACT has the same effectiveness as three years worth of allergy shots – but within the span of eight weeks. 

Frequently asked questions about climate change and allergies

Which allergens are being affected the most by climate change?

Environmental allergens such as oak, ragweed, grasses, and molds are the allergens that are most affected by climate change. 

Are more people developing allergies now than before?

Yes. Due to climate change affecting the allergenicity of allergens, we are seeing more people developing allergies year after year. 

What can I do to manage worsening allergies?

Since we know that allergies are only going to increase, the best treatment is to start a long-term treatment, as short-term treatments are only going to keep allergy symptoms at bay, not treat them. It’s best to consult an allergist to determine what long-term allergy treatment is best for you based on the severity and length of your allergies. 

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Get the allergy help you need

Climate change is already impacting our health, especially for those with allergies. Being proactive now can help you stay ahead of worsening symptoms. Don’t let allergies control your life or keep you indoors. Beyond environmental allergies, we also offer testing for food allergies. Start treatment today and breathe easier tomorrow. Book your appointment now!

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