The Dallas-Fort Worth area is considered to be very difficult for people with allergies, according to a recent study by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
The study, sponsored by Bayer, states that DFW is the fourth-worst region in the nation. reported The Dallas area had more days with high or very high risk for tree pollen compared to the 100 most populous regions in the United States, as reported by Axios.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reported that around 81 million people in the U.S. were diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis in 2021, which is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. reportedApproximately 26% of adults and 19% of children are affected by seasonal allergic rhinitis, according to the foundation.
Axios previously reported that the growing seasons in Texas are getting longer, resulting in a longer allergy season. reported According to Climate Central, the growing season in Texas had increased by 21 days between 1970 and 2020, leading to a longer allergy season.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (PNAS) discussed the link between climate change and the lengthening growing season, as well as the increase in allergy-suffering days. claimed A report from PNAS indicated that Texas and the midwestern United States experienced the largest increases in allergy-suffering days due to climate change.
Witchita, Kansas, was identified as the worst region in the United States for allergy sufferers, followed by Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Greensville, South Carolina, with Dallas ranking fourth. The report mentioned that former top-ranked Scranton, Pennsylvania, is no longer included in the ranking due to a decrease in population, not an improvement in allergy conditions.
AAFA identified People with allergies can take steps to improve their condition, such as removing shoes and wiping down pets when coming inside from outdoor activities, showering before bed, and using antihistamines.
The study showed that former top-ranked Scranton, Pennsylvania, would have been second on the list if it were still included.
To improve allergy conditions, people should remove shoes and wipe down pets when coming inside, shower before bed, and consider using antihistamines, though long-term use carries health risks. published The National Library of Medicine reported that antihistamines are effective for many people in controlling allergy symptoms, but long-term use poses health risks.