In spring, plant pollen is a particular threat to allergy sufferers. Some of them are light, so they are easily carried by the wind. In our geographical latitude – that is, in the northeastern states of the USA – spring allergies are caused by tree pollen. The common name for this phenomenon is hay fever. The greatest intensity of allergic problems is observed in April and May. Birch, maple, oak are trees that particularly bother allergy sufferers. Patients often ask how to protect themselves from hay fever. Wind carries pollen up to 50 miles. So even if we get rid of a tree that stands right next to the house, the problem will remain. Particles of life will fly in from a neighbor. As long as the pollination period lasts, the causative agent affects the allergic person. A little later in June, grass pollen appears, which can also be a cause of allergic diseases. In the autumn months, weed pollen can, in turn, be bothersome.
What are the symptoms of allergies?
Patients most often complain of itchy and red conjunctiva, rhinitis (hay fever), and sore throat. However, not every runny nose is an allergy. A runny nose can also be caused by viruses, air pollution, cleaning products, or cigarette smoke. If the patient is unsure what the actual cause of their concern is, they should definitely contact a doctor and get allergy tests.
What does allergy treatment involve?
The first rule in allergies is to avoid exposure to the allergen (not always possible). How to isolate yourself from pollen? Do not sit in the park, do not go for walks, wash your face frequently, rinse off in the shower and wash your head before sleeping. Windows in the apartment should be closed, and HEPA air filters are useful. Taking medications that limit symptoms is also helpful. Commonly known antihistamines include Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra. Among herbal preparations, it is worth trying Quercetin (a compound present in fruits and vegetables, such as apples, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, onions, green tea, red wine, and also as a supplement), nettle leaves (tea), or the natural preparation available in Europe, SINUPRET. Rinsing the nose with saline also significantly reduces allergic symptoms. It is worth mentioning immunotherapy, treatment using subcutaneous injections – in gradually increasing doses – of the allergen causing the allergy. Desensitization serves to teach the body tolerance to allergens. Doses of the allergen are processed by our immune system, and over time, hypersensitivity to pollen disappears.
