It is no secret that those of us living in the Ohio River Valley experience some intense allergies and asthma, especially during the transition from spring to summer. The valley’s unique geography traps allergens and air pollutants, making Louisville and surrounding areas a hotspot for aggravated allergies and asthma. But, there’s good news—the ULSOM Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergy and Immunology team, affiliated with Norton Children’s Medical Group, urges you to not let allergies and asthma stand in your way. You and your children should still enjoy some time outside!

Allergies are a common nuisance for many people in the Greater Louisville area, exacerbated by pollen from trees and grass in spring and mold from damp leaves in the fall Weather patterns also play a crucial role; high humidity and flooding increase mold spores and dust mites, while hot, dry weather reduces exposure to allergens. Rain initially lowers pollen counts but supports plant growth, increasing allergens later.  Additionally, windy, dry weather blows allergens around, worsening symptoms.

Asthma and allergies are particularly interconnected, as 9 in 10 children with asthma also have inhalant environmental allergies. Seasonal and  year-round allergens impact asthma, exacerbated by air quality alerts signaling triggers like air pressure fluctuations, temperature extremes, pollutants, ground-level ozone and smoke exposure. Hot days can also lead to dehydration, a major trigger for asthma and other health conditions, which is why it is essential to bring your rescue inhaler and water when enjoying the outdoors.

“People with asthma and allergies should be able to do everything their peers can,” said Dr. Scott Bickel, associate professor of pediatrics and pediatric pulmonologist. “Exercise and an active lifestyle can help significantly with symptoms. If your asthma or allergies are preventing you from being able to exercise or be active, it’s important to work with your physician on how to improve your symptoms, especially as we kick off summer.”

Thankfully, there are a number of ways that allergies and asthma can be treated. Prescription or over-the-counter medications and allergy shots are commonly encouraged to manage allergies. Those with asthma should have a rescue inhaler, but there are also several targeted biologic therapies that are available to provide personalized treatment for moderate to severe asthma.

“Keeping pets out of your bedroom, keeping the windows closed in your house, using protective covers for mattresses and pillows, and avoiding smoke exposure are some recommended steps you can take to avoid aggravating allergies and asthma,” explained Dr. Adriana McCubbin, associate division chief of allergy and immunology and pediatric immunologist. “Do not let allergies keep you from going outside! Kids need to be kids and play outdoors. Talk with your pediatrician, allergist, or pulmonologist about ways to optimize your allergy or asthma management so you can stay active and healthy.”

Thanks to the work being done by faculty members like Dr. Bickel and Dr. McCubbin, conditions are improving in Louisville. In 2024, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranked Louisville 40^th out of 100 metro areas for asthma severity, an improvement from the 5^th worst in 2018. As summer unfolds, let’s embrace the sunshine without allergies holding us back!

If you have a child suffering from allergies and/or asthma, please contact our esteemed faculty from the Pediatric Pulmonary Care Team and/or the Allergy and Immunology Care Team, affiliated with Norton Children's Medical Group.