AUSTIN, Texas — Sneezing, itchy eyes and runny nose. It is a common theme for many Austinites who suffer from allergies.
But a new study from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) says Austin's allergies aren't really as bad as you might think.
The AAFA released its 2023 Allergy Capitals report, which looked at the following factors:
- Total pollen scores (tree, grass and weed)
- Over-the-counter medication use (allergy)
- Number of allergy specialists
The results showed that Austin ranked 97 out of 100 cities with an overall rating of "better than average." The city scored "average" on total pollen and "better than average" on medicine and specialists.
The report also broke down each city's pollen ranking depending on the category. Austin scored 99 in tree pollen, 71 in grass pollen and 99 in weed pollen.
In the top 20 places with the worst allergies, Dallas ranked second and Houston was 12.
The AAFA does have several tips to help you get relief if you suffer from allergies:
- Keep windows closed during peak pollen times
- Use air conditioning or air cleaners with a HEPA filter
- Wipe furry animals off after they have spent a lot of time outdoors
- Change and wash clothes after outdoor activities
- Wash bedding in hot, soapy water once a week
- Clean your blinds or curtains regularly
- Vacuum your carpets, rugs and fabric furniture once a week
- Remove shoes before entering the home
- Dry laundry on a clothes dryer or indoor drying rack
- Wear a mask while outside to prevent pollen from getting in your nose, mouth and lungs
- Wear a hat or other coverings to prevent pollen from accumulating in your hair
- Shower before bed to keep pollen off your bedding
The AAFA also suggests taking allergy medication, rinsing your nose and talking to a doctor about allergy shots.