Explain It to Me Why are my allergies getting worse?
May 18, 2025
Nilu Tumala, an ENT surgeon at NYU Langone Health, and Joseph Allen, director of Harvard's Healthy Buildings Program, join health journalist Dylan Scott for an eye-opening discussion on escalating allergy issues. They dive into how climate change is extending allergy seasons and raising pollen levels, affecting daily life. The conversation also uncovers the hidden dangers of indoor air pollution and examines innovative treatment options like Zolaire. Exciting insights into future allergy management and potential cures keep listeners engaged!
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How Allergies Develop
- Allergies happen when certain individuals breathe in pollen which triggers an immune response.
- This response causes inflammation and symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and mucus production.
Climate Change Lengthens Allergies
- Climate change has lengthened allergy seasons by about three weeks over the last 30-50 years.
- Warmer temps cause earlier pollen release and longer ragweed presence in fall.
Common Allergy Complaints
- Patients frequently complain of nasal congestion, constant sneezing, and mucus buildup from allergies.
- Poor sleep and reduced attention span are common secondary effects, especially impacting children.