The results are in! According to Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)1, the following cities are among the most challenging places to live with spring allergies this year:
- McAllen, Texas
- Jackson, Mississippi
- Providence, Rhode Island
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Springfield, Massachusetts
- Louisville, Kentucky
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Scranton, Pennsylvania
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Richmond, Virginia
The report looks at three important factors:
- Pollen and mold counts
- Allergy medicine usage
- Availability of board-certified allergists
What causes allergies?
Allergies happen when your body’s immune system reacts to substances that wouldn’t cause a reaction in most people. The immune system’s function is to help your body fight intruders such as parasites, bacteria, or viruses. If you’re allergic, your immune system reacts toward natural substances the same way it would react toward something harmful. Your immune system “misreads” something that is otherwise completely harmless.
The top sources that cause allergic reactions are:
- Pollen (trees, grasses, weeds)
- House Dust Mites
- Animal Dander
- Stinging Insects (bees, wasps)
- Molds
- Foods
Fun Fact: On average, most people are allergic to 2 or 3 sources.
More than just sneezing...
Repeated exposure to allergens will lead to inflammation, which can cause both immediate symptoms as well as chronic problems such as:
- Asthma
- Wheezing
- Cough
- Itchy eyes / Watery eyes
- Sinus congestion
- Headaches
- Aches and pains
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of taste or smell
Get Tested
Tell your healthcare provider about your allergy symptoms and any possible allergen exposures.
If you have questions or would like to speak with one of our pharmacists, give us a call at (800) 547-1399 during normal business hours.
References 1 Aafa.org. (2019). The 100 Most Challenging Places to Live with Allergies. [online] Available at: [AAFA Allergy Capitals](https://www.aafa.org/allergy-capitals/) [Accessed 27 Mar. 2019].
