April has arrived and with it comes a pollen-filled spring season. Since spring is in the air, people sensitive to allergies will have begun to feel the allergy symptoms.


According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, millions of Americans have started visiting doctors about growing symptoms of allergies. The Foundation has created a list for the year 2014 indicating the worst places in the US for allergies in the spring. Some cities in the US may be badly affected by allergens. These cities are cited as being the worst place for allergens after examining the levels of pollen, usage of allergy medicines and the number of certified allergy specialists in the city. Based on these findings, Louisville, Kentucky is at the top of the list, up from number 5 last year.

Below are the top 10 worst cities in the US for allergies during spring:

10) McAllen, Texas

9) Birmingham, Alabama

8) Richmond, Virginia

7) Dallas, Texas

6) Chattanooga, Tennessee

5) Jackson, Mississippi

4) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

3) Baton Rouge, Louisiana

2) Memphis, Tennessee

1) Louisville, Kentucky

The top twenty cities include Columbia, San Antonio, and New York,. Residents of Los Angeles can relax this year since their city falls to number 77 this year.

How do Persistent Winters Affect Allergy Season?

People suffering from asthma and allergies have a long-term sensitivity to allergens such as mold and pollen. Moreover, they are also prone to quick changes in moisture and temperature.

According to Dr. Clifford Bassett, medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of NY and an ambassador for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, when winter weather lasts beyond the arrival of spring, asthma patients and those who suffer from allergies could be affected by multiple symptoms at one time.

How To Prevent Allergies?

Here are some tips to help you prevent the symptoms of allergies:

• Take Medicines Early: Start your day by taking an antihistamine. Taking medicine well before the symptoms appear will definitely help you. You may also want to take a 24-hour allergy pill before bed to help you remain symptom-free in the morning.

• Keep Your Windows Shut:  Pollen grains are the main allergens that blow in the spring. Keep your doors and windows shut, especially during the early hours. If you feel too warm inside your home, run the air conditioner. However, make sure to change the old filters as they will most likely be full of dust, pollen and mold. Installing an air purifier with a HEPA filter will also help to remove allergens from the interiors.

• Be Aware Of Your Surroundings: Check the pollen count by visiting weather sites or through local morning news and try to stay inside if the count is high.

• Wear Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes from irritation.

• Eat Healthily: Yogurt is a good source of probiotics which prevent the symptoms of allergies. Eating omega-3 fatty acids will also prevent the development of hay fever. Alternatively, you can take probiotic and omega-3 supplements.

• Be Calm: Stress can alleviate allergy symptoms. By practicing calming techniques you can remain free from anxiety.

• Don’t Bring Your Shoes In: This will help prevent the spread of pollens and other allergens all over your home. You may also want to take a bath after arriving home to remain free from pollen grains.