The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America ranks which cities are the worst. The rankings are based on pollen count (which includes grass/tree/weed pollen as well as mold spores), how much allergy medication is used in each city, and the number of allergists per capita. The full list of 100 and more details on methodology are available on their site (pdf). Here are the 10 worst cities in the U.S. for people with allergies in 2014:
By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
