Today, Explained Why are my allergies getting worse?
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May 18, 2025 
Nilu Tumala, an ENT surgeon at NYU Langone Health, and Joseph Allen, director of Harvard's Healthy Buildings Program, join Dylan Scott of Vox to tackle the rising tide of allergies. They dive into how climate change is extending allergy seasons and exacerbating symptoms. The discussion reveals how indoor air pollution contributes to health problems, with practical solutions for better air quality. Plus, discover new treatments like Zolair that offer hope for allergy sufferers against a backdrop of increasing environmental challenges.
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Real Allergy Struggles
- Many people shared personal experiences of worsening seasonal allergies lately.
- Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, and constant mucus, especially in spring and fall.
Climate Change Extends Allergy Seasons
- Climate change has lengthened pollen seasons by about three weeks in the last 30 to 50 years.
- Warmer temperatures cause earlier pollen release and longer ragweed seasons in fall.
Future Allergy Worsening Predicted
- If global warming continues, pollen allergy seasons will lengthen and pollen counts will increase further.
- Rising carbon dioxide levels drive more and longer-lasting pollen in the air.