Spring allergies to start strong, last long, says annual AAFA report

Landover, MD-Extreme weather patterns may contribute to a lengthy, severe allergy season this spring, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). The annual AAFA Spring Allergy Capitals report ranks the most challenging cities to live with allergies in the United States. Rankings are based on pollen levels, use of over-the-counter and prescription allergy medication, and the number of board certified allergists.

For 2013, Jackson, MS, claimed the top spot on AAFA's Spring Allergy Capitals ranking, followed by Knoxville, TN (#2), and Chattanooga, TN (#3). Of note, three major cities, Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Dallas each climbed slightly higher in the top 25 compared with last year.

This year’s rankings reflect an early spring following an unusually wet winter. Additionally, many regions of the U.S. recover from severe storms and flooding. Hurricanes, severe storms and tornadoes can also affect the severity of spring allergies.

For specific allergy risks in 100 U.S. cities, resources about diagnosis, prevention and treatment options, resources for physicians, and more information on the study methodology, visit www.AllergyCapitals.com.