As participants crossed the finish line at the 34th annual Turkey Trot in Austin, some of them were not just running the race, but also dealing with runny noses due to allergies.
One young runner, Charlie Henderson, shared that his nose tends to run a lot, making it difficult to breathe during activities. He mentioned that he has to use nose spray daily to ease congestion. His aunt, Jocelyn Johnson, also experiences seasonal allergies, particularly when mold and cedar levels are high, leading to puffy eyes and severe headaches.
According to Dr. Allen Lieberman, an allergist at Austin Family Allergy and Asthma, allergy seasons in Central Texas are becoming more severe. He explained that plants are producing higher pollen levels, causing allergy seasons to start earlier, last longer, and be more intense. The overlap of different pollen seasons, like ragweed and cedar, is exacerbating the situation.
Recent data from the Environmental Protection Agency indicates that ragweed pollen season is extending by almost a month in the central U.S. and Canada. This trend is concerning for individuals like Henderson, who are already experiencing worsening allergy symptoms.
Dr. Lieberman warned that the peak of cedar allergy season is still ahead, and many patients are finding that their usual allergy medications are becoming less effective due to the intensity of the seasons. Johnson shared that her family is taking proactive measures by getting allergy shots to prevent sinus infections that typically occur in January or February.
The use of an automated pollen sampling machine by KXAN revealed high levels of mold on Thanksgiving day, indicating the presence of allergens in the air. This serves as a reminder for allergy sufferers to stay informed about pollen levels and take necessary precautions to manage their symptoms effectively.
As allergy seasons in Central Texas continue to evolve and become more challenging, it is essential for individuals to consult with allergists, stay updated on pollen counts, and explore different treatment options to ensure better management of their allergies. By being proactive and prepared, allergy sufferers can navigate through the seasons with greater ease and comfort.
