Spring is the season of love and positive vibes, but unfortunately, also the season of pollen allergy. Moreover, although this condition affects some of us mildly, it can make life unbearable for others.

Although this allergy can occur in any season, it is usually most severe in the spring months when pollen is at its highest concentration in the air. It is the most common type of environmental allergies.

 

Why does pollen allergy happen?

Pollen allergy is a condition that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to pollen. Underlying this condition is the body’s perception of pollen particles as a foreign and harmful substance. The overreaction of the immune system leads to intense and uncomfortable symptoms.

 

What are the symptoms of pollen allergy?

The symptoms of this condition vary from person to person, and depend on severity of the allergy. The most common complaints you will hear from people with pollen allergy are:

– Nasal congestion and runny nose: This allergy causes swelling and congestion in the nose. As a result, runny nose and constant sneezing occur.

– Eye discomfort: Symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, redness and swelling are common. These symptoms are often exacerbated by exposure to tear gas.

– Sneezing: People with this allergy often experience a sneezing reflex when they come into contact with pollen or breathe air containing pollen. This sneezing is the result of irritation in the nose and throat.

– Itchy throat and cough: All respiratory allergies cause upper respiratory symptoms such as an itchy throat and cough.

– Headache and fatigue: In some cases, the main symptoms of allergies are accompanied by secondary symptoms such as headache, weakness and general fatigue.

 

What should people with pollen allergy do?

Consulting a specialist doctor is the best option for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor will examine your case in detail and, depending on your general health and the severity of the condition, may prescribe medication or other treatment.

There are several treatment options to relieve the symptoms of this allergy. Antihistamines are one option that can be effective in reducing some allergy symptoms. These include symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itching and watery eyes. Nasal sprays are also an effective option to relieve nasal congestion and runny nose. Eye drops are used to relieve itching and redness in the eyes.

Apart from consulting a doctor, a few simple measures can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of allergies. We gathered some at the very bottom of this article.

 

Does pollen allergy only occur in spring?

In 90% of cases, it appears in the spring. However, although most plants prefer spring as their breeding season, there are different species that produce pollen in other seasons. Therefore, the time of occurrence of pollen allergy varies according to the geography and season. It is hard to believe, but there are even plants that prefer December to pollinate.

 

Recommendations for people suffering from pollen allergy

• If you suffer from severe allergic reactions, see your doctor before the pollen season starts.
• Pollens are outside. Limit the time you spend outdoors and wear a mask when pollen is high.
• Pay attention to the general cleanliness of your living spaces and the filter cleaning of air conditioners and similar equipment. Do the cleaning with water only if possible, not chemicals such as detergents.
• Clean your nose frequently with salt water.
• Pollen has highly developed sticking abilities. Take off and clean the clothes you use outside when you get home. Take a shower to get rid of pollen that stuck to your body and especially your hair.
• A healthy diet and enough fluid intake are miraculous for any health issue. Eat at least one fresh fruit or vegetable at every meal and keep your body well hydrated.
• Avoid bad habits that weaken respiratory tract (such as smoking) to relieve allergic reactions affecting the respiratory system.