Dr. William Howland Discusses the Top 5 Allergy Cities in the U.S.
According to Dr. William Howland, there are some lists in which a city doesn't want to be in the “Top 5.” And one of those lists is the “Worst Allergy Cities in the United States.” The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America uses a ranking system that takes into account three distinct factors to determine a city's allergy ranking, says Dr. William Howland. The deciding factors include tree pollen amounts, the number of allergy medications used by residents and the number of allergists, Dr. William Howland explains. There are plenty of reasons why Austin, Texas is nicknamed the “Allergy Capital of the World,” Dr. William Howland acknowledges. With its three allergy seasons, there is a scant few months when residents have relief from hay fever, comments Dr. William Howland. There is even a winter pollen season, which is unusual for most of the country, and is caused by mountain cedar trees. The spring allergy season occurs with newly budding trees and grasses and the fall season thatDr. William Howland describes as being born on a wave of ragweed pollen.  Other cities which top The Asthma and Allergy Foundation's list include: Knoxville, Tenn.; Louisville, Ky.; Charlotte, N.C. and Jackson, Miss., Dr. William Howland says. In warmer climates, pollen season lasts much longer because of the growing season of various trees, grasses and weeds, explains Dr. William Howland. On the East Coast, mold and ragweed can be a culprit in seasonal allergies. In mountain states, the length of allergy season and type of pollen vary due to the local climate, Dr. William Howland elaborates. Dr. William Howland suggests that people who live in states with high allergy triggers and who are sensitive to pollen space should consider these tips. People should close windows and run air-conditioning in their home and in their vehicle, if possible. Another way for people to cope with allergies is to limit exposure outside, Dr. William Howland explains. Peak pollen hours occur between5 a.m. and 10 a.m., and people who suffer from allergies should particularly try to stay inside during that time. Dr. William Howland also suggests that a non-allergic person should brush petsoften during allergy season, because they can bring in pollen on their fur. There are other ways to offset allergy symptoms in even the worst of cities, Dr. William Howland notes. Allergy shots are effective, and there are medications that can lessen symptoms quickly and dramatically. Dr. William Howland advises the people who suffer from allergies consider lung inhalers, oral medications, prescription nasal sprays and eye drops.  For more information, contact Dr. William Howland at the Allergy and Asthma Center of Austin online at www.nosneezes.com