If you live in one of the top 2024 Allergy Capitals, we’ve got some tips to help you handle your seasonal pollen allergies and feel better! Learn more from this report. If you need extra help with your asthma triggers, we’re here for you. Simply self enroll for medication support, you can also call us at (410) 348-1905 or send us an email.

Below are 20 cities in the US with the worst allergies based on  tree, grass, and weed pollen levels, over-the-counter allergy medication usage, and the availability of allergy specialists.

‍

• Wichita, KS 
• Virginia Beach, VA 
• Greenville, SC 
• Dallas, TX 
• Oklahoma City, OK 
• Tulsa, OK 
• Richmond, VA 
• Des Moines, IA 
• Raleigh, NC 
• Fayetteville, AR 
• Allentown, PA 
• Baton Rouge, LA
• Sarasota, FL 
• Houston, TX 
• Columbia, SC 
• Orlando, FL 
• Little Rock, AR 
• Chattanooga, TN 
• Greensboro, NC 
• Kansas City, MO
  ‍

‍

What Are Environmental Allergies?

Allergies make you sneeze, have a runny or stuffy nose, and get itchy eyes. They happen because of things around you like dust, pet fur, mold, and pollen. Usually, your body doesn't mind these things, but if you have allergies, your body thinks they’re harmful and reacts.

Some people have these symptoms all year long, while others only have them during certain seasons. When allergies happen at specific times of the year, they’re called "seasonal allergies" or "hay fever."

‍

How to reduce allergic reactions?

On Low Pollen Days:

• Plan your outdoor activities on these days!

‍

On High Pollen Days:

• When outside, wear sunglasses, a hat, and a mask to keep pollen out of your eyes, nose, mouth, and lungs.
• Remove your shoes before entering your home to avoid bringing pollen inside.
• Change and wash your clothes after outdoor activities.
• Wipe down your pets when they come inside.
• Shower before bed to keep pollen out of your bedding.
• Keep windows closed during pollen season, especially during peak pollen times (usually midday).
• Use air conditioning or air cleaners with a HEPA filter if possible.

‍

General Tips:

• Stay inside during peak allergy seasons.
• When possible, keep car and house windows closed, and use air conditioning instead.
• Take a shower before bed to rinse pollen off your hair and skin.
• Wear a dust mask if you need to be outside.

‍

If You Are Allergic to Dust, Dust Mites, Mold, or Pets:

• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water.
• Cover pillows and mattresses with vinyl covers to protect against dust mites.
• Things like rugs, stuffed animals, and curtains collect dust - try to eliminate these from your bedroom. Clean air conditioner and furnace filters regularly.
• Vacuum every week using a vacuum
• Keep pets out of the home if possible. If you do have pets inside it’s best if they stay off the furniture, especially where you sit and sleep most often!

‍

How are these allergies treated?

You can talk to your provider or your Scene pharmacist about the best options for you: 

• Nose Rinses: Rinse your nose with salt water to clear out pollen.
• Steroid Nose Sprays: These sprays help with stuffy noses and work best when used daily.
• Antihistamines: These medicines help with itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
• Allergy Shots or Pills: These help your body get used to allergens over time.

And remember - if you have Asthma or COPD be sure to take your daily controller inhaler to prevent flares! 
‍

When to Call the Provider?

Contact your doctor if you have:

• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
• Green or yellow mucus

These might mean you have an infection, not just allergies. Taking care of your allergies and asthma can help you feel better and live a happier life. Work with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and connect with your Scene care team if you need more help!

‍

‍