Allergy season is here again. Have software and tech improved the way we cope with seasonal changes? Allergies are a minor nuisance for some, but seriously debilitating for others. In fact, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness among Americans, and more than 50 million of them suffer from allergies each year.
Achoo! We're talking about airborne allergies, to be clear. There are many people who have allergies to foods, medications, and materials. But since Spring is in the air, we thought it would be interesting to look at 8 ways technology is helping people fight the effects of pollen, dust, and dander.
Living with allergies can be a constant battle against itchy eyes, runny noses, and limitations on daily activities. Thankfully, technological advancements are offering a breath of fresh air (quite literally) for allergy sufferers. Here are eight ways technology is improving the lives of people with allergies:
1: Allergy Trackers and Monitors:
Gone are the days of blindly hoping the air is clear. Allergy trackers and monitors, often available as apps or wearable devices, provide real-time information on pollen counts, mold spores, and other environmental triggers. This allows people to plan their activities strategically, minimizing exposure during peak allergy seasons. Imagine checking the app before a morning jog and opting for a treadmill session indoors if the pollen count is high.
2: Smart Air Purifiers:
For those seeking cleaner air within their homes, smart air purifiers offer a powerful solution. These wifi-enabled devices can be controlled remotely and programmed to filter out allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen. Additionally, some models even send alerts when filter replacements are needed, ensuring continuous optimal air quality. These machines are part of the interesting developments in consumer-facing SMART tech and IoT for homeowners.
3: Telemedicine Consultations:
Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare access, and allergy sufferers are reaping the
benefits. Consulting with a specialist is now possible from the comfort and safety of one's home through video calls. This eliminates the need for travel, which can be especially helpful during peak allergy seasons or for individuals with severe allergies who might be hesitant to visit a waiting room filled with potential triggers.
4: Online Allergy Communities:
The internet has fostered a sense of community for people with allergies. Social media groups and online forums connect individuals facing similar challenges. These online spaces provide a platform to share experiences, ask questions about managing allergies, and find support from others who understand the daily struggles. Many of these pages, however, are dedicated to food allergies (not seasonal allergies).
5: DNA Testing and Personalized Medicine:
The future of allergy management might lie in personalized medicine. Advancements in genetic testing hold the potential to identify individuals at risk for developing allergies and even pinpoint their specific triggers. This information could pave the way for the development of personalized allergy treatments and even preventative measures based on an individual's unique genetic makeup.
6: Allergy Identification Tools:
Pollen season got you sniffling but unsure of the culprit? Smartphone apps can now come to the rescue. Some apps analyze photos of plants or identify pollen based on location data, helping people pinpoint their specific allergy triggers. This newfound knowledge empowers individuals to take targeted action, like avoiding specific parks during high pollen counts or investing in a mask specifically designed to filter out the problematic pollen.
7: Allergen-Free Product Development:
Technology is not just improving allergy management; it's also leading to the development of new products designed to minimize allergens in everyday life. Advancements in material science and production methods allow manufacturers to create clothing, bedding, and cleaning products with hypoallergenic properties. For instance, special fabric weaves can repel dust mites, and fragrance-free cleaning solutions formulated with new technologies can effectively clean without triggering allergies.
8: Improved Allergy Medication Delivery Systems:
The way we receive allergy medication is also transforming. New drug delivery methods offer more convenient and effective ways to manage allergies. Sublingual immunotherapy tablets dissolve under the tongue, bypassing the digestive system and potentially offering faster relief. Allergy patches provide a sustained release of medication through the skin, eliminating the need for daily pills. These advancements offer a wider range of options for people with allergies, allowing them to choose the treatment method that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
How's Allergy Season Going For You?
Many areas around the country are impacted by the seasonal changes and a sudden influx of pollen. Some people are experiencing watery eyes, runny noses, and even trouble breathing at times.
Hopefully your workplace isn't generating some of the same reactions. If you are thinking about greener (albeit pollen-free) pastures, why not reach out to discuss the idea of changing companies?
As a software sales recruiter with nearly four decades of experience, I might have an idea or two where you could look. Also, for the sales managers out there, I have an extensive network of pre-vetted talent that's nothing to sneeze at. Job seekers and managers drop me an email at mike@michaelblair.com.