I have pretty bad seasonal allergies. Decades ago allergy tests confirmed that I'm allergic to various North American trees like ash, birch, maple, oak, cedar, elm, juniper, and pine. During spring, pollen from these trees triggers allergic rhinitis, causing sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, and a scratchy throat. Breathing can be challenging due to nasal congestion.
To manage my allergies, I take medication year-round. I also have what my allergist calls "allergy-induced asthma," so I use an albuterol inhaler to ease symptoms. Thankfully, I don't have allergies to tropical plants or food.
Interestingly, my allergy symptoms are milder when I'm in wooded areas. I disjt understand why until Shaan learned that many suburban and urban areas primarily plant male trees, which produce lots of pollen but no seeds, fruits, or pods. Female trees, which don't produce as much pollen but do produce fruit, are less favoured by landscapers and homeowners who don't ant to deal with uneaten fruit.
It's frustrating to think that as a society we contribute to our allergy woes, but that's the situation in many parts of the United States. We ignore our relationship with nature and do what's convenient and attractive.
