The Wirecutter Show: Seasonal Allergies Are Getting Worse
Release Date: May 12, 2025

Introduction

In the May 12, 2025 episode of The Wirecutter Show, hosts Christine Cyr Clisset, Kyra Blackwell, and producer Rosie Guerin delve into the increasingly troubling issue of seasonal allergies. Titled "Seasonal Allergies Are Getting Worse," the episode explores the rising prevalence and intensity of allergies, attributing much of this trend to climate change. The hosts aim to provide listeners with actionable advice, expert insights, and practical solutions to manage and mitigate allergy symptoms effectively.

Climate Change and the Escalation of Allergy Seasons

The episode opens with Rosie Guerin sharing her personal struggles with seasonal allergies, highlighting a broader national concern where "one in four adults in the US suffer from allergies" (00:24). She reflects on the irony of anticipating the vibrancy of spring while grappling with debilitating allergy symptoms.

Christine Cyr Clisset introduces the core topic, emphasizing the tangible impact of climate change on allergy seasons. She states, "Allergy seasons are becoming longer and they really are becoming more intense" (00:24).

Nina Agrawal, a health reporter from The New York Times, joins the discussion to shed light on the scientific data behind this trend. Agrawal explains, "Global warming has caused the season to start about 20 days earlier than it used to," and notes that "pollen concentrations have risen about 20% nationwide since 1990, with Texas and the Midwest experiencing the greatest increases" (03:44 - 04:06). This extension not only lengthens the duration of allergy sufferers' discomfort but also intensifies the severity of symptoms.

Distinguishing Allergies from Other Respiratory Conditions

Kyra Blackwell raises a common concern: "Sometimes it's just hard these days to tell if maybe you have allergies, maybe you have a cold, maybe you have Covid" (04:49). Agrawal addresses this by outlining key differences between allergies and viral infections. She notes that while both conditions share symptoms like congestion and coughing, allergies are more likely to cause pervasive itchiness across the eyes, nose, throat, and even ears. In contrast, viral infections may present with muscle aches, joint pain, or fever—symptoms typically absent in allergies (05:01).

Additionally, Agrawal emphasizes the importance of consistent yearly patterns and personal or family medical history (such as asthma or eczema) as indicators pointing towards allergies rather than other illnesses (05:34).

Managing Allergies: Environmental Controls

The conversation transitions to practical strategies for managing allergies, starting with environmental control. Agrawal advises listeners to "limit the exposure to pollen on really high pollen count days" by utilizing pollen trackers and taking proactive steps such as wearing masks outdoors, keeping windows closed, and showering upon returning home to remove pollen particles (05:52).

Christine Cyr Clisset supplements this advice by discussing indoor air quality measures. She references a previous episode on the show, suggesting the use of air purifiers and high-quality vacuum cleaners to reduce particulate matter and dust, which can harbor pollen. This holistic approach aims to create a safer indoor environment for allergy sufferers regardless of outdoor pollen levels (06:29 - 06:50).

Medication Options for Allergy Relief

Nina Agrawal provides a comprehensive overview of the various medications available for treating allergy symptoms. She categorizes them into three main types: nasal sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants.

1. Nasal Sprays (Corticosteroids):

   • Example: Flonase
   • Function: Reduce inflammation in the eyes, nose, and throat.
   • Usage: Must be started a week or two before symptom onset to be effective.
   • Quote: "Even though they're steroids, they're not absorbed systemically like an oral steroid would be, so they're considered low risk" (07:15).

2. Antihistamines:

   • Examples: Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra (second-generation); Benadryl (first-generation)
   • Function: Alleviate itchiness and inflammation by blocking histamine.
   • Advice: Second-generation antihistamines are preferred as they cause less drowsiness and cognitive impairment. First-generation antihistamines like Benadryl are generally not recommended, especially for older adults, due to risks such as confusion and potential links to dementia.
   • Quotes:
     • "Second generation antihistamines don't [cause as much confusion]" (09:07)
     • "A lot of doctors... steer clear of Benadryl, especially in older patients" (09:32).

3. Decongestants:

   • Examples: Claritin D, Allegra D (contain pseudoephedrine; Sudafed)
   • Function: Relieve nasal congestion.
   • Advice: Not recommended for children and should be used sparingly by adults due to potential increases in heart rate and blood pressure.
   • Quote: "These shouldn't be used in kids at all... use them for a few days at a time" (10:13 - 10:29).

Agrawal emphasizes consulting with a healthcare provider to tailor medication choices to individual needs and to ensure safe and effective use.

Long-term Solutions: Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)

For individuals who find that traditional medications do not provide sufficient relief, Agrawal discusses the option of immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots. This treatment involves gradually introducing increasing amounts of the allergen to build tolerance over time. While not an immediate solution, immunotherapy offers long-term relief that can persist for years.

• Quote: "They take a number of years to work, but they can have effects that last years as well" (10:40).

Conclusion and Recap

Wrapping up the episode, Christine Cyr Clisset provides a succinct recap for listeners:

1. Reduce Pollen Exposure:

   • Wear masks outdoors on high pollen days.
   • Improve indoor air quality with closed windows, air purifiers, and regular cleaning.

2. Understand Medication Options:

   • Utilize nasal sprays and second-generation antihistamines as first-line treatments.
   • Use decongestants sparingly and avoid first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl, especially in older adults.

3. Seek Professional Help if Needed:

   • Consult an allergist for advanced treatments like immunotherapy if over-the-counter medications are insufficient.

Kyra Blackwell directs listeners to Wirecutter's comprehensive coverage and product recommendations for further assistance, ensuring that those struggling with seasonal allergies have access to trusted resources and expert advice.

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Wirecutter Show effectively combines expert insights with practical tips, making it an invaluable resource for anyone grappling with worsening seasonal allergies. By addressing both environmental and medical interventions, the hosts provide a well-rounded approach to managing allergy symptoms in an era of changing climate patterns.