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Allergies and Asthma: the Best State to Live In

An allergy is an inflammatory immune response to foreign particles like pollen or dust, while asthma is a condition characterized by airway restriction and inflammation. While not a direct cause of allergies or asthma, location can play a role in the severity of symptoms. States with the lowest local prevalence of particular allergens may be beneficial for some patients.

  1. Symptoms

    • Allergies are caused by the chemical histamine, which is released in response to various triggers. Symptoms may include sneezing, fatigue, eye irritation, nasal congestion and runny nose. Asthma involves airway inflammation alternating with symptom-free periods. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing.

    Triggers

    • The list of potential allergic triggers is endless. While virtually any substance can cause an allergic reaction, some of the most common include pollen, mold, dust, pet dander and the proteins in wheat, eggs and milk. According to Medline Plus, asthma attacks may be triggered by exercise, cold air, stress and allergens like pollen or mold.

    Climate

    • A state’s climate can influence which allergens are most prevalent. States with heavy rainfall like Louisiana may be more prone to mold growth, while arid states like Nevada are often plagued with excessive dust. For people with asthma, colder climates like those of the Northern states can trigger frequent asthma attacks and lead to a worsening of the condition.

    Native Plants

    • A state’s natural plant population is an important consideration for people with pollen allergies. According to Medicine Net, airborne pollen that is lightweight and travels greater distances is more likely to trigger allergies than heavier varieties spread by insects. Ragweed, Bermuda grass and cedar trees are known for their allergenic pollen, while plants with showy flowers such as roses are less likely to cause allergies.

    Considerations

    • According to the Asthma and Allergy Association of America, allergies and asthma are not dependent on external factors alone and will likely follow a person wherever they go. Exposure to new types of pollen, mold and other allergens often results in sensitivity to the proteins they contain.

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