The Relationship of Climate Change to Rhinitis

J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2024 Jun;12(6):1479-1483. doi: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.04.012. Epub 2024 Apr 16.

Abstract

Evidence is mounting that climate change is having a significant impact on exacerbations of rhinitis. Concomitantly, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis is increasing at an accelerated rate. We herein explore the impact of carbon dioxide, barometric pressure and humidity changes, and anthropogenic pollutants on aeroallergens and rhinitis hypersensitivity. Important immune mechanisms underlying the climate-driven effects on rhinitis are discussed. Also, climate change is shifting ecological zones and seasons, increasing weather extremes, and altering regional atmospheric and environmental conditions. The direct impact of these factors on promoting allergic and nonallergic rhinitis is reviewed.

Keywords: Air pollution; Allergic rhinitis; Anthropogenic activity; Carbon dioxide; Climate change; Fungus; Mold; Nonallergic rhinitis; PM(2.5); Pollen.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allergens / immunology
  • Animals
  • Atmospheric Pressure
  • Carbon Dioxide
  • Climate Change*
  • Humans
  • Humidity
  • Rhinitis* / epidemiology
  • Rhinitis, Allergic / epidemiology

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Carbon Dioxide