MPR News with Angela Davis

Why spring allergies may be getting worse and what to do about them

the seeds of a dandelion blow away in the wind
Experts say allergy season is starting earlier, hitting harder and lasting longer — largely due to climate change. 
Philippe Huguen | Getty Images

If you’re someone with seasonal allergies, you know that spring can be a mixed bag. 

Along with the warm temperatures, sunshine and fresh air comes the sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion and fatigue. 

And if your allergies seem worse than ever this year, you’re not imagining things. Experts say allergy season is starting earlier, hitting harder and lasting longer — largely due to climate change. 

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two allergists about how our bodies are reacting to the spring allergy season and what you can do to manage your symptoms.  

Whether you’ve struggled with allergies and asthma for years or you’re just starting to notice them, they’ll cover what you need to know. 

two women smiling in a broadcast studio
MPR News host Angela Davis (right) talks with Dr. Alice Knoedler, an allergist at Midwest Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists, a group of clinicians based in and around the Twin Cities, in an MPR News studio in St. Paul on Wednesday.
Nikhil Kumaran | MPR News

Guests:

  • Dr. Sergio Chiarella is an allergist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. 

  • Dr. Alice Knoedler is an allergist at Midwest Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists, a group of clinicians based in and around the Twin Cities.  

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