Why does climate and weather affect allergies?

Allergens, or foreign substances that cause allergic reactions, include pollen , animal dander, dust, mold (fungi whose spores can float in the air), and insect bites or stings.² According to reports, climate change has increased the incidences of skin and respiratory allergies due to longer pollination and increased humidity, which helps proliferate common allergens pollen, mold, fungi, and dust mites .³

In addition, weather conditions, such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, rain and wind, can irritate the airways and elicit flare-ups.⁴ People with allergies also tend to breathe through their mouths, allowing potential allergens to enter the lungs.⁴ The nose is also unable to regulate humidity and air temperature,^.4

Here is how different kinds of weather affect allergies:

Humid Air⁴

This type of air is full of moisture and heavy, making it hard to breathe.⁴ It may cause allergy flare-ups, especially as mold and bacteria flourish in moist environments.⁴

Hot Weather^4,5,6

As the temperature rises, the ozone also rises to unsafe levels, irritating the respiratory system.⁴.Ground-level ozone, the type of gas we breathe, is formed from reactions among nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, both of which are air pollutants⁵ .

There is also a positive correlation between temperature and pollen concentration, as one study noted that pollen concentration peaked in Manila during summer months.

Cold, Dry Air^4,7

Cold, dry air may lead to worsening symptoms, as cold air can make the bronchial tubes tighten up.⁴ Allergies in cold weather may appear in the form of itchy rashes or swelling, called cold urticaria .⁷

Changing Seasons^4,8

Barometric pressure changes, together with the weather, can cause breathing difficulties when you have asthma.⁴ On rainy days, water drops could hit the ground and break apart pollen clumps, which then disperse and increase allergy symptoms.⁸ In rainy and humid weather, mold and dust mites also proliferate.⁸

Climate Change³

Some experts suggest that climate change may play a role in the increase of allergies³. Longer periods of pollination and higher humidity leads to more dust mites, mold, and pollen, resulting in the increase of skin and respiratory allergies.³

What are seasonal allergies?^6,8.9

The These types of allergies occur during certain times of the year, usually when pollen is released into the air by plants for fertilization.⁹

One study noted that in Manila, pollen concentration peaked during March to May, which are summer months.⁶

Conversely, while the rainy season is generally better for those with allergies, mold and dust mites could also increase given the damp conditions.⁸

Have Loratadine (Claritin®) on hand

If reducing exposure is not possible, your doctor may recommend medicines for your allergy symptoms.Loratadine (Claritin®) relieves allergy symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, watery and/or itchy eyes, nose or throat.¹⁰

With unpredictable changes in weather causing allergies, it’s good to have a stock of loratadine at home and in your bag when you travel or even just step outside of the house.

Loratadine (Claritin®) works in as fast as 15 minutes¹¹, lasts for up to 24 hours¹² and is non-drowsy vs. cetirizine and first-generation antihistamines^12,13, making it a great choice for kids and adults alike who have busy days.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.
ASC Ref No. B0042P033123C