2026 Spring Allergy Season: Experts Warn of Common Mistakes and Climate Change Impact

The spring allergy season in 2026 has started earlier than in previous years, and experts predict its duration will be significantly extended due to progressive climate change. Rising temperatures and changes in air mass circulation cause plants not only to start pollinating sooner but also to produce larger amounts of allergens. This phenomenon is intensified by stronger winds, which carry pollen over much greater distances, exposing the population to new varieties of plants. Research published since the early 2020s indicates a steady trend of lengthening plant growing seasons in North America and Europe. Already in 2021, scientists suggested that climate change is responsible for increased pollen concentrations in the atmosphere. In 2025, it was confirmed that global warming causes stronger allergic reactions in people due to higher concentrations of allergenic proteins in pollen grains.

Specialists emphasize that the most effective method of combating symptoms is pharmacological prophylaxis started even before the first symptoms appear. It is recommended that individuals sensitive to pollen begin taking oral antihistamines, such as loratadine, two to four weeks before the expected peak of pollination. This approach allows for stabilizing the immune system's response before it is exposed to high concentrations of allergens in the air. . „You can start taking oral antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) around two to four weeks before your pollen season begins” — Expert via The New York Times

In March, millions of people make a mistake that drastically worsens their health: airing out their homes in the morning hours. It is in the morning that pollen concentration in the atmosphere reaches its highest values, meaning opening windows at this time introduces a huge dose of allergens directly indoors. Instead, experts advise keeping windows closed during periods of high pollination and using air purifiers, which can effectively filter out fine plant particles. prawda: Airing out rooms in the morning in March is a mistake because that is when the highest plant pollination activity is recorded. (Mediafax)

Another critical aspect is mistakes made during spring cleaning, which, instead of eliminating the problem, cause dust and allergens to circulate throughout the home. Traditional dry sweeping of floors or using vacuum cleaners without proper filtration systems merely stirs up pollutants, which then settle on the mucous membranes of household members. Wet cleaning methods and devices equipped with HEPA filters are recommended. Cleaning Rules for Allergy Sufferers: Dust removal: Dry sweeping → Wiping surfaces with a damp cloth; Vacuuming: Standard bag filters → Use of HEPA-class filters; Cleaning products: Strong scents (forest, meadow) → Fragrance-free products