An abnormally high pollen count in many parts of the United States this spring could mean worse symptoms for individuals who suffer from asthma. According to a recent article published on Arizona news site KTVK-3TV, there has been a high number of asthma-related doctor's visits in the state this year, and experts say this is partly due to seasonal allergens.
"I would say [allergy season is] worse this year because we didn't have a freeze this past winter, so the ragweed and types of weeds that would have been dormant are still blooming and even worse this year," said Kimberly Reiners, a pediatric asthma educator at Cardon Children's Medical Center in Mesa, Arizona.
If you or your children have asthma, it's important to be vigilant about preventing attacks, as there are 3,404 deaths each year attributed to the chronic respiratory disease, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"Any time your child is coughing, having shortness of breath, say their chest hurts [or] doesn't have a lot of energy, it's best to let your primary care doctor know right away," Reiners told the source.
In addition to speaking to a doctor about what you can do to reduce your asthma symptoms this allergy season, there are simple products you can invest in to help eliminate the presence of certain triggers. A whole house air purifier can remove common irritants such as pet dander, pollen and dust mites directly from the air. If you or your children spend a lot of time in the car, installing a cabin air filter can prevent allergens from entering the vehicle.
