The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that approximately 100 million Americans battle allergies each year. Though much of it is seasonal, and due to pollen, there are various other environmental conditions that factor into the sneezy and itchy eyes. AAFA recently released their report on which cities contain the most allergies. The state of Florida has eight allergy capitals in the top 25 cities.
The data compiled was specific to the top 100 metropolitan areas around the country. In order to determine a ranking three important factors were studied. They include tree, grass, and weed pollen levels. They also take on over-the-counter allergy medicine distribution into account. And finally, the availability of board-certified allergists/immunologists.
What Cities Are the Worst?
Wichita, Kansas had the top score by far, which makes it the worst city for allergies. As for Florida, the first city to appear was Sarasota at number six and then Cape Coral at number seven and Orlando at number eight. AAFA's report showed the majority of the heavy allergies reside on the east coast and southern portions of the country.
"Climate change has caused the growing seasons to get longer and warmer, leading to higher tree, grass, and weed pollen counts," the report states.
Florida Specific
The pollen count throughout the state of Florida was quite high. There were numerous cities within the state the finished in the top 10 of all three pollen categories - tree, grass, and weed pollen. Miami, Lakeland, Palm Bay, Tampa, and Daytona Beach are the other areas that landed in the top 25 worst allergies cities.
What To Do About It
"Along with the self-care steps listed in the report, CERTIFIED asthma and allergy-friendly products can also help you manage your contact with pollen inside your home and have better indoor air quality," AAFA explains. Minor tasks like closing your windows, taking regular allergy medications, and rinsing your nose are suggested methods to prevent symptoms.
