Strategies for Averting Pollen Sensitivities

In the height of spring and throughout the year, pollen allergies can cause discomfort for many individuals. Here, we provide a guide to help allergy sufferers manage their symptoms effectively.

Firstly, it's crucial to stay hydrated. Allergy sufferers should aim to drink at least two liters of water daily to prevent the drying out of mucous membranes and alleviate symptoms.

A pollen forecast calendar can be a valuable tool in predicting pollen levels and recognising seasonal pollen burdens. By keeping track of regional pollen levels, individuals can attribute their symptoms to the respective allergens.

In spring, vitamin A can help strengthen the function of the mucous membranes, providing support against pollen allergies. Vitamin A is not produced by the body and is taken in through food sources like milk and butter.

When it rains, there is less pollen in the air, making it a good time to air out the apartment. In the city, the lowest pollen count is recorded in the morning, making it the ideal time to ventilate the apartment. However, street clothes should not be left in the bedroom overnight, as pollen can burden the body.

Certain protection measures are crucial within the home. Allergy sufferers should note that pollen exposure taxes the immune system, and measures such as ventilating in the morning and changing bedding weekly are essential. Bedding should be changed at least weekly to reduce exposure to pollen.

Allergens spread through the air, and allergy sufferers can't easily escape them. Indoor allergens during winter, such as house dust mites, pet hairs, and down feathers, can cause allergic rhinitis similar to pollen allergies. Additionally, pollen from early-blooming plants like alder may already be present indoors starting in late winter, potentially causing symptoms.

Inhaling steam can help alleviate symptoms of pollen allergies. A steam inhalation, using a liter of water and 9g of sea salt (without iodine additives), can clean and moisturise airways and calm irritated nasal mucous membranes. However, inhaling steam should not be done with boiling water.

A warm bath, possibly with the addition of essential oils, can provide relief for pollen allergy sufferers by soothing irritated mucous membranes and easing breathing. Essential oils added to bathwater or inhalation solutions can have a soothing effect on irritated mucous membranes.

Symptoms of pollen allergies include a stuffed nose, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, coughing, labored breathing, fatigue, and sharp headaches. The immune system reacts to pollen, even though it's not a disease-causing agent for humans.

Some types of pollen, such as hazel, alder, or grapevine, can fly in the winter and trigger symptoms. Therefore, it's essential to be vigilant throughout the year to manage pollen allergies effectively.