Today, Explained Why are my allergies getting worse?
263 snips
May 18, 2025 
Nilu Tumala, an ENT surgeon at NYU Langone Health, and Joseph Allen, director of Harvard's Healthy Buildings Program, join Dylan Scott of Vox to tackle the rising tide of allergies. They dive into how climate change is extending allergy seasons and exacerbating symptoms. The discussion reveals how indoor air pollution contributes to health problems, with practical solutions for better air quality. Plus, discover new treatments like Zolair that offer hope for allergy sufferers against a backdrop of increasing environmental challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Indoor Air Is Major Allergy Source
- We spend 90% of our time indoors, where outdoor allergens and indoor pollutants mix.
- Indoor air pollution can be much higher than outdoor, affecting allergy and respiratory health.
Common Indoor Allergens Explained
- Indoor allergens include pet dander, pest allergens like cockroach and mice, and volatile organic chemicals from cleaners.
- Cooking indoors also releases airborne particles that can trigger allergy symptoms.
History of Indoor Air Quality
- In the 1970s energy crisis led to tighter, less ventilated buildings raising indoor pollution.
- This caused the era of 'sick buildings' with poor air quality and increased allergy risks.