The Allergy Capitals™ were identified and ranked by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America based on the following factors:
- Average recorded pollen levels over the last 7 years
- Length of the peak season for the most offensive pollen types
- Number of antihistamine prescriptions written per capita in the last year
- Number of board certified allergists per capita
Each factor was weighted, in consultation with medical and research experts, to reflect its relative importance as an indicator of allergy severity. The weighted factors were then tallied to assign a total score that determined ranking as an Allergy Capital™.
If you suffer from airborne allergens and live in an Allergy Capital™ – or are planning to travel to one – there are steps you can take to prevent allergy symptoms and to treat them when necessary.
- Step #1: Check your city’s Allergy Forecast
- Step #2: Create your own Allergy Action Plan
- Step #3: Consider Preventing Allergies On the Go
- Step #4: Consider your Treatment Options
Sometimes prevention is not enough to control your allergy symptoms and you may need to treat allergy symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription medication. There are new non-drowsy antihistamines available over the counter, such as Alavert™ and Claritin®, that can provide relief for up to 24 hours.
Whether or not you live in an Allergy Capital™, knowing your local allergy forecast can help you keep your allergy symptoms under control.
