After months of bitter cold, dangerous ice storms and all-around dreary winter weather, the fresh spring air will be a welcome change. For allergy sufferers, however, the transition from winter to spring may bring itchy eyes, sneezing and other tiresome symptoms. According to Villanova University College of Nursing professor, Theresa Capriotti DO, MSN, CRNP, the upcoming allergy season will be worse than usual due to the rough winter we’ve all endured.
“The heavy snowfall across the Northeast and Southeast will lead to a more severe season for tree, grass and mold allergy sufferers this year,” says Capriotti. “The numerous snowstorms and excess precipitation over this past winter have primed the dormant trees, grasses and molds to release allergens.”
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), 23.6 million Americans were diagnosed with hay fever – an allergy caused by pollen released by trees and grasses – in the last year. The prevalence of allergies is surging upward, with as many as 30 percent of adults and up to 40 percent of children having at least one allergy.
Theresa Capriotti is available to comment further on how this past winter – with its surplus of snow, sleet and ice – will impact the approaching allergy season. If you’re interested in speaking with her on this topic, please contact me directly at (610) 519-5152 or [email protected].
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