Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What kind of allergies are most common in your country?
- In which months do people in your country usually experience the most allergy problems?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- symptom /SIMP-tuhm/
- allergen /AL-er-juhn/
- mask /mask/
- spray /sprey/
- oral /AWR-uhl/
[noun] – physical or mental features that indicate a condition or disease
The doctor asked about the symptoms I was experiencing before making a diagnosis.
[noun] – substances that cause an allergic reaction
Common allergens like pollen and dust can trigger severe reactions in people with allergies.
[noun] – covers worn over the face to protect against particles or pollutants
She wore a mask to avoid inhaling dust while cleaning the attic.
[noun] – liquids distributed in small droplets, often used for medicinal or cosmetic purposes
The doctor recommended a nasal spray to relieve her congestion.
[adjective] – relating to the mouth
The dentist explained the importance of good oral hygiene for maintaining healthy teeth.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Allergy season affects millions of Americans annually, causing runny noses, sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes from exposure to pollen from trees, grasses, and other sources of pollen. The severity of these symptoms can vary based on location and specific allergens. Dr. Nana Mireku, an allergist from Dallas-Fort Worth, emphasizes the importance of knowing which pollen types trigger allergies to manage symptoms effectively. She suggests keeping windows closed, avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen counts, and changing clothes after being outside. Masks can help reduce pollen exposure but do not protect against eye symptoms. Over-the-counter nasal sprays and antihistamines are recommended, with the advice to start using them early in the season for the best results.
Experts warn that climate change is making allergy seasons longer and more severe. Dr. Rachna Shah from Loyola Medicine Allergy Count notes that in Chicago, pollen levels began rising in mid-February this year, earlier than usual. She expects the allergy season to be longer due to mild winter and warm weather. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that cities like Wichita, Virginia Beach, Dallas, and Oklahoma City are particularly challenging for allergy sufferers due to high pollen counts. For severe cases, treatments like immunotherapy with allergy shots or oral drops can help by addressing the root causes of allergies.
Experts warn that climate change is making allergy seasons longer and more severe. Dr. Rachna Shah from Loyola Medicine Allergy Count notes that in Chicago, pollen levels began rising in mid-February this year, earlier than usual. She expects the allergy season to be longer due to mild winter and warm weather. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that cities like Wichita, Virginia Beach, Dallas, and Oklahoma City are particularly challenging for allergy sufferers due to high pollen counts. For severe cases, treatments like immunotherapy with allergy shots or oral drops can help by addressing the root causes of allergies.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What symptoms do many people experience during allergy season?
- Why is it important to know which pollen types trigger allergies?
- What does Dr. Nana Mireku suggest to reduce pollen exposure?
- What type of medication is recommended for managing allergies?
- When should you start using allergy medications for the best results?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever had symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes during allergy season? If yes, what did you do to feel better? If not, what do you think could be difficult about having these symptoms?
- Have you ever had to change your daily routine because of allergies? If yes, what changes did you make? If not, how do you think allergies might affect someone’s daily life?
- Do you agree that keeping windows closed can help reduce pollen exposure?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of using masks to reduce pollen compared to other methods like nasal sprays?
- How do you think climate change is making allergy seasons worse, and what can people do about it?