Allergies in Chicago are going to be especially bad this year due to a sharp increase in the weed count.
While spring finally arriving is good news for most people, it is unwelcome for those who suffer from allergies. Due to the extremely cold winter that most of the country went through just a few months ago, many parts of the U.S. are bracing themselves for an increased pollen count, which has become known as the “pollen vortex.” Some areas will be more affected than others this year.
Chicago is one of the cities that is being hit hard, as earlier this week the entire city got a dangerous air quality alert. According to those who track the air in Chicago, the city has recorded a two decade high for weed count. This is presenting many problems for those residents who have sensitive breathing systems, as being outside is becoming increasingly difficult.
“The weed count was over 1,000, and last year at this time the weed count was just 200,” Dr. Joseph Leija, a retired allergist at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital in Melrose Park, told local reporters.
Not only is the weed count much higher than it has been in years past, according to Dr. Leija the allergy season has also started much earlier than it usually does. Typically, weed and ragweed allergy season lasts from mid-August through October, with other allergens taking predominant spots during the rest of the year. But with the extreme weather Chicago has experienced, the different allergy seasons have started to blend together, which is bad news for those with respiratory conditions.
Wherever you live in the country, keeping your air clean and free from pollutants is essential for your health. To help keep the atmosphere in your home or office fresh, be sure to invest in an air purifier for allergies from US Air Purifiers Direct 2U!