Fox News: Top 10 'allergy capitals' of the US, plus 4 tips to manage symptoms

[riky]

Top 10 'allergy capitals' of the US, plus 4 tips to manage symptoms

As allergy season kicks into high gear, a doctor provides tips to manage symptoms, as the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reveals the 10 "allergy capitals" of the U.S.

                   
                       

Allergy season is upon us, and it's bringing about some of the worst cases yet.

"Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns allow plants and trees to grow in places they didn't before," according to the American Lung Association — which means a rising pollen count, and even new types of pollen.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) recently released its annual allergy report, which identifies the "most challenging cities" for those living with You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

The report focuses on tree, grass and weed pollen counts throughout the year, as well as over-the-counter You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login and the availability of board-certified allergists and immunologists.

The 2025 report named Wichita, Kansas, as the top allergy capital for the third year in a row, largely due to its worse-than-average tree and grass pollen.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

New types of pollen — and larger amounts of them — can trigger You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login for people even if they haven't previously suffered from them.

Dr. Purvi Parikh, who specializes in You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login allergy and immunology at NYU Langone, spoke with Fox News Digital about the best ways to keep allergies at bay as the seasons change.

For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, Parikh recommends starting medications early.

"One of the most important things that we recommend is to use a 24-hour antihistamine, because they're longer-acting and can really help control symptoms," she told Fox News Digital.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login and antihistamine nasal sprays can also help with itchy eyes and stuffy noses, respectively.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

"The other important thing to remember with over-the-counter medications is that if you're having breathing issues, like coughing, wheezing or chest tightness, those are all signs that you You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login," Parikh cautioned.

In that case, she recommends seeing a medical professional to make sure you're using the right medication.

When coming inside after You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login, Parikh recommends changing clothes and taking a shower to wash off any pollen and decrease exposure.

Washing bedsheets once a week in warm water can also help limit exposure to allergens, according to experts.

As the pollen count is highest in the mornings, Parikh said it's best to stay indoors early in the day.

"Keep windows closed early in the morning for the same reason," she advised.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

The pollen count surges again in the late afternoon and early evening hours.

Different plants and trees release pollen at different times, so symptoms can vary depending on where you live, according to the AAFA.

Trees generally produce the most pollen from February through April. 

In some southern states, however, they can begin producing the allergen as early as December or January and peak at multiple times during the year, the same source stated.

While stuffy noses and dry eyes are often chalked up to allergies, Parikh noted that other factors could be at play.

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

"You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login and allergies can have a lot of identical symptoms," she told Fox News Digital.

"Allergies tend to last longer ... so if you feel like you're sick for the whole month of April and May ... it may be more likely that it's allergies."

You are not allowed to view links. Register or LoginYou are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

Those who are unsure whether their symptoms are due to allergies or illness should consult a doctor, Parikh advised.

Source: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login