United States: During this spring season, those affected by seasonal allergies begin their annual struggle with watery eyes, congested noses, and persistent sneezing attacks.
The effects of global warming mean seasonal allergies will worsen substantially based on evidence presented in a new analysis.
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Scientists expect worse allergy seasons both in duration and intensity because of ongoing climate changes.
The analysis in The Laryngoscope (April 9 journal publication) indicates total pollen emissions will potentially surge by 40% before this century ends because pollen levels expand during climate change.
Scientists predict that the pollen season will extend its duration by as much as 19 days.
Healthcare costs attributable to seasonal allergies will escalate as climate change continues to develop, according to research experts.
According to the research team led by Alisha Pershad, a third-year medical student at the George Washington University School of Medicine, “While it may not be well understood by health professionals, the financial strain of this increasingly prevalent disease cannot be understated,” US News reported.
“The burden is approximately $3.4 billion, most of which is attributable to prescription medication costs and outpatient visits,” the team mentioned.
How was the study conducted?
The research involved documentation from 30 previous investigations, and 16 studies confirmed that climate change brought lengthened pollen seasons and elevated pollen counts:
- The response of ragweed pollen to higher temperatures and carbon dioxide greenhouse gases in urban areas includes rapid growth and earlier flowering of plants, together with increased pollen production.
- The numbers of pollen grains in our environment trigger a growing trend in seasonal allergy cases across populations.
- Increased pollen amounts generate more serious allergic reactions.
- Doctors have observed alterations in pollen seasonal patterns and report higher numbers of patients suffering from seasonal allergies.