Why allergy season feels worse in 2025 and what you can do about it

LOS ANGELES - As millions across the US break out the tissues and allergy meds, many are asking the same question: why does allergy season feel worse this year? From itchy eyes to endless sneezing, symptoms seem to be arriving earlier and lingering longer.

Health experts say you’re not imagining it. Allergy season is becoming more severe—and it has a lot to do with shifting environmental conditions. While effective treatments do exist, managing exposure to pollen has become more important than ever.

Why is allergy season worse in 2025?

The backstory:

Doctors and scientists say climate change is extending the length of growing seasons and altering natural rhythms in plants. As temperatures rise and winters become milder, pollinating plants bloom earlier and continue releasing pollen for longer periods.

"Climate change impacts allergy season because the consistent rhythm… is all off kilter," Frederic Bertley, president of the Center of Science and Industry, told Healthline. That means places that usually see pollen later in spring are now getting hit earlier, and some are seeing a double whammy—early and late pollen spikes.

The result: longer exposure and stronger reactions in people who are already sensitive to allergens.

By the numbers:

In late March, Atlanta recorded a pollen count of over 14,000 grains per cubic meter—classified as "extremely high" by the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Center. More than 25% of adults and about 1 in 5 children in the US now experience seasonal allergies, according to the CDC.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranked the worst cities for allergies in 2025 based on medication use, pollen counts, and access to specialists. The top five: Wichita, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Memphis.

What causes seasonal allergies?

What we know:

Seasonal allergies are triggered by airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. In spring, tree pollen dominates—think birch, oak, cedar, and maple. Grasses like Bermuda and Kentucky bluegrass take over in summer, followed by weed pollen in the fall.

Your symptoms may vary depending on what you’re allergic to, where you live, and your daily habits. Common reactions include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, postnasal drip, and sinus pressure.

What we don't know:

While the general connection between climate change and rising pollen levels is clear, it’s difficult to predict exactly how long or intense a given season will be. Local weather, rainfall, and urbanization all play a role—and researchers are still studying how these variables interact.

How can you reduce allergy symptoms?

What you can do:

Experts say the most effective step is to limit exposure to pollen, both indoors and out. Keep windows shut, shower after being outside, and avoid wearing outdoor clothes into bed. Pets can also bring pollen inside, so bathing them frequently helps.

FILE - A man with hay fever and a handkerchief in front of his nose is standing next to a flowering shrub.  (Photo by Angelika Warmuth/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Wearing masks outdoors, rinsing your eyes and nose with saline, and installing HEPA filters can also reduce your pollen exposure significantly.

What's next:

If symptoms are disrupting your sleep or work, over-the-counter medications like nasal sprays and antihistamines may help—when used correctly. Dr. Kathleen Mays, an allergist in Georgia, recommends pointing nasal sprays outward, not straight up, to avoid irritation.

For more severe or persistent allergies, experts suggest visiting an allergist. Immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, can train your immune system to become less reactive over time.

And despite widespread social media claims, methods like eating local honey haven’t been scientifically proven to reduce pollen allergies. As Dr. Shayam Joshi told the Associated Press, most honey doesn’t contain the wind-borne pollen that causes symptoms.