Used to be that I’d only sneeze and sniffle in spring and summer, but lately the sniffles and sneezes stick around all autumn and winter, too. I thought it was just me, but it turns out it’s a worldwide problem.

It seems the percentage of people suffering from allergic rhinitis is on the rise. And, according to a paper published in this month’s Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, the culprit is global climate changes. The paper links increased temperatures and carbon dioxide levels to increased pollen production by trees, grasses, and weeds.

What can we do about it? Well, pills can help, to a degree. But the best thing that allergy sufferers can do is to be aware of their environment and make it as allergen-free as possible. Here’s a few simple tips that might help:

Stay inside during peak pollen times and keep the windows closed.

Shower before bedtime if you have been outside, especially during peak pollen times.

Further information on how to deal with annoying allergies can be found at the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI).

Image: B&M