Why are allergies so bad in Kansas City right now? Here’s the culprit and some tips

Eleanor Nash
·2 min read

If you’re sneezing, coughing, or sniffling this fall, you’re not the only one.

One in three adults has a seasonal allergy in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health. To make matters worse, Kansas City is the 20th worst city to live with pollen allergies in 2024, according to an analysis by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Dr. Aarti Pandya, an allergist at Children’s Mercy, answered questions about seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever and chronic rhinitis.

When is the worst time for allergies in Kansas City?

This depends on what you are allergic to.

Pandya said that weed pollen allergies are worst in the fall. Grass allergies spike in the summer, and tree pollen is worst in the spring.

Ragweed pollen is the highest right now, and peaks from August through October, according to the AAFA. Ragweed is a greenish shrub that distributes pollen in the wind.

Accuweather says ragweed is moving from a low pollen level to a moderate pollen level beginning Saturday, Oct. 5, through Wednesday, Oct. 9.

How do I prevent my allergy symptoms?

Pandya said that reducing the amount of pollen in your home can help. To do so, turn on an air filtration system, keep your windows closed and wash your clothes at the end of the day.

If your symptoms persist, Pandya suggested making an appointment with an allergist. These medical professionals can determine the cause of your symptoms and the best way to reduce them.

What are ragweed allergy symptoms?

According to the AAFA, symptoms include:

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Sneezing (can be repetitive and severe in some cases)

  • Itchy nose, eyes, ears, and mouth

  • Red, watery or swollen eyes

  • Moodiness, irritability or tiredness

How do I tell the difference between seasonal allergies and COVID-19?

With many symptoms in common, it can be challenging to know if you have hay fever or COVID. However, seasonal allergies do not cause fevers or stomach issues like vomiting or diarrhea, so if you have those symptoms, you might have COVID.

To know for sure, take an at-home COVID test — free ones are available through the USPS. Take multiple tests to make sure you did not get a false negative.

Have more questions about fall in the Kansas City area? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.

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