Mountain cedar, pollen, ragweed – oh my!
Parkland physician shares tips to stay ahead of allergy and asthma season
If it feels like allergy season is getting longer and more intense, you’re not imagining it. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, more than 106 million people in the U.S. live with allergies and/or asthma, and pollen seasons are becoming stronger and lasting longer. To keep sneezing and sniffing at bay, a Parkland Health expert has some advice to help you find relief.
Warmer temperatures, shifting weather patterns and increased air pollution are driving higher pollen production and extending allergy seasons across the country – in some places, nearly year-round.
In the 2026 Allergy Capitals report, Dallas ranked No. 64 out of the 100 largest U.S. metro areas.
North Texas sees overlapping allergy triggers throughout the year, from winter “cedar fever” to spring tree pollen, summer grasses and fall ragweed, which can be especially tough for people with asthma. Pollen exposure doesn’t just cause sneezing and itchy eyes; it can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of attacks.
“Seasonal allergies often start with mild symptoms like a runny nose or itchy eyes, but they can escalate quickly and trigger asthma symptoms,” said Cesar Termulo, MD, Associate Medical Director for Parkland’s Community Health Centers.
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and persistent cough, particularly during high pollen days. When not well managed, allergies and asthma can affect sleep, work and overall quality of life, and can even lead to an emergency room visit.
What you can do:
- Check daily pollen counts and limit outdoor activity on high days
- Keep windows closed and shower after spending time outside
- Start allergy medications before peak seasons
- Work with your doctor on a plan to manage symptoms and asthma triggers
“As we move into peak allergy season, we often see allergies trigger asthma attacks in children,” said Dr. Termulo. “If your child has a persistent cough, especially at night, or any signs their asthma is getting worse, reach out to your doctor right away.”
For families managing asthma, having a plan is key. Asthma causes swelling and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe during flare-ups, but with the right care, symptoms can be controlled.
To learn more about signs, symptoms and treatment options for children, visit www.parklandhealth.org/asthma-in-children.
For more information about Parkland services, visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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