Outsmart SPRING ALLERGIES

For a lot of the country, allergy season is about to begin. Breathe easier when you avoid these habits that could make your symptoms worse.

- SHARON LIAO,GRACIA LAM

If you feel like you’re sniffling and sneezing more than ever this spring, you’re not alone. “Every year, allergy season gets worse as global temperatures rise,” says Christopher Codispoti, MD, PhD, associate professor of allergy and immunology at UTHealth Houston.

As winters warm and the frost season shortens, trees, grasses, and other plants have longer growing seasons—and produce more pollen. One study spanning from 1990 to 2018 found pollen levels in North America jumped 21 percent during that time period—and allergy season stretched 20 days longer. What’s more, today’s pollen grains contain more allergens, making them more potent year over year, says Jeff Demain, MD, a clinical professor at the University of Washington and spokesperson for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

The result: Your symptoms are exacerbated. Allergy medications can help, but certain missteps in your home and garden can worsen symptoms.

MISTAKE 1

Letting the Grass Grow Too Tall

Grass grows faster in the warmer months. Don’t wait until it’s up to your calves to mow. No matter what type of grass you grow, taller blades are more likely to release pollen. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America recommends keeping your grass cut short, around 2 inches tall.

MISTAKE 2