Spring is here, but for some, it comes with a dreaded allergy season. According to a recent Forbes Health/OnePoll survey, 44% of people polled said their allergy symptoms were so bad, they’d consider moving to cope with their symptoms. This article will explore why people are willing to make such big sacrifices to relieve their allergies and what cities in the United States are the worst for allergy sufferers.
The Top Sacrifices People Would Make for Allergy Relief
The Forbes Health/OnePoll survey reveals the sacrifices people would make to stop their seasonal allergy symptoms. Many adults would skip outdoor adventures (20%) or never open their windows when the weather is nice (25%) due to their allergy symptoms. Individuals living with seasonal allergies also say they’d be willing to make big sacrifices to never deal with their symptoms again. In fact, 32% of those ages 27 to 42 say they’d give up part of their paycheck, and 35% say they would give up their favorite hobby. While 29% say they’d sacrifice sleep, another 29% say they’d give up sex, and 34% say they’d give up social media.
Worst Cities in the U.S. for Seasonal Allergies
Forbes Health compiled a ranking of the worst cities for seasonal allergies, based on factors including pollen counts for major allergens and air quality. The data reveals the southwest is a hotspot for seasonal allergies, with Albuquerque, New Mexico, coming in as the worst city for individuals with seasonal allergies. Two cities in Arizona, Phoenix, and Glendale, came in at second and third worst, respectively. Other cities include Arlington, Dallas, Cleveland, Fort Worth, Plano, Garland, and Irving.
Why is the southwest such an allergy hotspot? Mohammad Younus, M.D., an allergist at Hackensack Meridian Health at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, notes that climate change is certainly a big factor. People are now exposed to more pollen due to rising temperatures, and excess CO2 in the atmosphere is causing pollen to grow larger and more robust and to flower for more months during the year. In the southwest, dry climate, droughts, and a longer growing season play a big role in elevated pollen counts and a worsening allergy season in recent years.
How Much People Are Spending on Allergy Relief—and Tips for Managing Symptoms
Seasonal allergies can be expensive, and the Forbes Health/OnePoll survey revealed that allergy sufferers are willing to pay a premium for relief. Nearly half (46%) are willing to pay more for their allergy medicine if it works better, and on average, allergy sufferers spend $127 per month on over-the-counter and prescription allergy relief products. However, there are ways to find relief without breaking the bank. Experts recommend keeping windows closed, using an air purifier, taking a shower after being outdoors, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak allergy hours.
Related Facts:
– 74% of Gen Z poll respondents said they’d consider moving to ease the burden of their allergy symptoms—a large uptick from the 47% of older adults (ages 27 to 42) and 38% (ages 43 to 58) who’d move to ease their symptoms.
– 44% of individuals ages 18 to 27 say their symptoms affect their mental health more than their physical health, which is the reverse of older populations.
– Plants have more time to flower and release pollen, and an excess of CO2 in the atmosphere is causing pollen to grow larger and more robust, and to flower for more months during the year.
Key Takeaway:
Spring can be a challenging time for allergy sufferers. If you’re considering relocating to find relief from symptoms, consider the worst cities for seasonal allergies, including Albuquerque, Phoenix, Glendale, Arlington, Dallas, Cleveland, Fort Worth, Plano, Garland, and Irving. Seasonal allergies can also be expensive, but there are ways to find relief without breaking the bank.
Conclusion:
Allergy sufferers are willing to make big sacrifices to relieve their symptoms. With warmer months ahead, it’s crucial to take care of allergies to avoid discomfort and allow yourself to enjoy the spring season. Understanding the worst cities for allergies and managing symptoms through cost-efficient techniques is the need of the hour.
