Spring forecast: Increase in allergy symptoms

As spring approaches, people with allergies can blame global warming for some of their suffering, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Weather conditions have a significant effect on the levels of pollen and mold in the air, which affects the severity of allergies.

That suggests mold allergens could be particularly prominent this spring given the extent of drought across the United States — dry and hot weather lifts molds from the soil to be carried by the air. In addition to tree pollen, springtime mold contributes to hay fever.

As many as 9% of children suffer from such hay fever symptoms as itchy eyes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Homeopathic manufacturer Similasan last year identified seasonal eye allergies as a significant opportunity. At launch Similasan's Kids Allergy Eye Relief was the only eye drop in the mass market formulated for children older than two years. "We wanted to create a solution for kids that is made with 100% natural active ingredients [and] is safe," Dan Quail, VP sales Similasan, toldDSN.With this launch, Quail suggested Similasan may have a comprehensive solution set for moms hoping to relieve symptoms of children with a cold or allergies — a homeopathic cough syrup for their throat, an ear drop solution for when a sinus infection extends into the ear cavity and now, a natural solution for itchy eyes.

During the upcoming three months, a much drier pattern is expected across the southern third of the nation, from central California to the eastern Gulf Coast.

The article above is part of the DSN Category Review Series. For the complete Homeopathy Buy-In Report, including extensive charts, data and more analysis, click here.