How Nitrogen Pollution Affects Pollen Allergies

Nitrogen pollution caused by, for example, burning fossil fuels can increase the presence of pollen allergies. While some have noticed an increase in their allergic reactions in recent years, many are unaware that this may be caused by nitrogen pollution. This type of pollution impacts us through various mechanisms. These mechanisms impact the number of pollen in the air, the plants that release pollen, the pollen themselves, or our reaction to pollen. As a consequence, we react differently and/or more strongly, leading to more and worse symptoms.