Seasonal Allergies: Why Do We Get Them? Can We Prevent Them?

If you're among the estimated 25 million Americans suffering from seasonal allergies, spring may not be your favorite time of year. It marks the start of watery red eyes, runny nose, sneezing and coughing, all signs of airways inflamed because the immune system is overreacting to the presence of pollen, mold or some other allergen. What can an outdoor lover do? Are allergy seasons getting longer and longer or does it just seem that way? And why is Houston such a hotspot? In today's episode, we discuss one of the most common but overlooked diseases, allergic rhinitis.Hosts: Zach Moore, Todd Ackerman (interviewer)Expert: Dr. Mas Takashima, OtolaryngologistNotable topics covered:What the 2023 season has in store for allergy sufferersHow allergies are an unintended consequence of our ancestors' defense against parasitesWhat allergy sufferers should do on high pollen daysHow to distinguish between allergies and sinus infectionsThe most common triggers for Spring, Summer and FallHow global warming is affecting allergy seasonsThe ages at which allergies hit hardest and start to declinePotential solutions: Allergy shots? Masks?Which matters most when it comes to allergies — genetics or environment? If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.