10 Worst Cities for Allergies and Why

6. McAllen, Texas

In the city of McAllen, wind is responsible for carrying pollen hundreds of miles away from mountain cedar trees in the Rio Grande Valley. Later in the season, residents also have to battle dry conditions and native plants such as huisache, grasses and mesquite. Because of the small amount of rain McAllen sees per year (around 26 inches), there is not much available to get rid of lingering particles. A nasal saline can help keep your nose clean and free of lingering pollen residue. An antihistamine can also help get you through a rough patch.

5. Knoxville, Tennessee

Coming in at a score of 99.62 from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Knoxville is number 5 on our list of worse cities for allergies. It is rated worse than average on the amount of people using mediation and airborne pollen levels. But it does score better than average on the amount of allergists available for allergy sufferers. Seasonal allergies have been shown to spike during times of stress. So treat yourself to a spa day during peak pollen season and blame it on the allergies.