How Moving to a New Region Can Affect Your Seasonal Allergies

If you're about to move or you’ve recently moved to a new area and noticed your seasonal allergies getting worse—or better—it’s not your imagination. Changes in environment can significantly impact your allergies, thanks to differences in pollen seasons, plant types, and climate conditions.

Let’s explore why moving can make your allergies feel different and what you can do to adapt.

1. Different Pollen Seasons and Concentrations

Every region has its own pollen calendar. Some areas experience short, mild pollen seasons, while others have long, intense ones. Moving to a place with a longer pollen season or higher pollen concentrations can mean more exposure to allergens, potentially worsening your symptoms.

For example, regions affected by climate change are seeing longer pollen seasons and higher pollen counts. This can be a challenge for people moving into these areas who aren’t accustomed to such high allergen levels.

2. Geographic Shifts of Allergenic Plants

The types of plants in your new region matter too. Some allergenic plants, like ragweed, are expanding their range due to changing temperatures and environmental conditions. If you move to an area where these plants are common, you may experience new or worsened allergy symptoms.

3. Higher Allergenicity

Pollen from plants grown in warmer climates can be more allergenic. For instance, birch pollen from warmer areas has been shown to have a stronger effect on the immune system, making it more likely to trigger allergic reactions. If you’ve moved to a region with higher temperatures, you might find your allergies becoming more intense.

4. Increased Sensitization Rates

Living in an area with high pollen concentrations for an extended period can increase your chances of becoming sensitized to those allergens. Sensitization occurs when your immune system starts reacting to new allergens over time, which can lead to worsening symptoms.

5. Impact of Extreme Weather Events

Some regions experience extreme weather events like thunderstorms, which can worsen allergy symptoms. Thunderstorms can break pollen grains into smaller particles, making them easier to inhale and more likely to trigger severe reactions, such as thunderstorm-related asthma.

How to Adapt to Allergy Changes

1. Learn About Local Allergens Familiarize yourself with the plants and pollen seasons in your new area. This can help you anticipate when symptoms might be at their worst.

2. Monitor Air Quality Check daily pollen counts and air quality reports. On high-pollen days, try to stay indoors and keep windows closed.

3. Use Air Purifiers Invest in a good air purifier to reduce indoor allergen levels.

4. Consult an Allergist If your symptoms are severe or you’re struggling to adapt, talk to an allergist. Treatments like sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) or allergy medications can help you manage your symptoms.

5. Practice PreventionShower after spending time outdoors, wash your clothes frequently, and avoid drying laundry outside during high-pollen seasons.

Moving Doesn’t Have to Mean Miserable Allergies

Adjusting to a new region’s allergens can take time, but with the right strategies, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy your new environment. Whether it’s learning about local pollen trends or seeking professional help, small changes can make a big difference in how you feel.

Learn more about Allergy Treatment (we do DROPS and not shots) at Big Trees MD HERE!