George Sandow explained that rising temperatures around the world lead to longer plant growing seasons and increased pollen density, which prolongs the suffering of allergy sufferers.
He added that higher carbon dioxide levels act as a "natural fertilizer" for plants, increasing pollen production, and that milder winters also cause pollen production to continue into late fall.
This warning comes at a time when many people are experiencing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, which can easily be confused with respiratory illnesses such as the common cold and the flu.
"The combination of peak mold and dust mites and damp fall conditions means that allergy sufferers now face a much longer 'high-risk window' each year," Sandhu noted.
Experts point out that fall allergies last for weeks or even months and are characterized by specific symptoms that differ from those of colds. While colds are associated with fever, body aches, and a sore throat, allergies are characterized by persistent sneezing, itchy eyes and nose, and congestion that may last for a long time.
Allergies worsen in the fall due to several factors, including the continued spread of pollen in the air, mold growth in humid areas, and the spread of dust mites in homes with the onset of heating.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to relieve these symptoms, such as antihistamines that relieve sneezing and itching, nasal sprays that reduce congestion, saline solutions that help clear the nose, and soothing eye drops that relieve itching.
Doctors advise against ignoring these symptoms and consulting specialists if they persist, as allergies may worsen over time if not treated appropriately.
