Pollen prevention and desensitization: Better management of seasonal allergies
Sunny days are back—and for many, so is allergy season. If pollen turns your spring into a sneeze-fest, you’re not alone. A few smart habits (and a little help) can let you soak up the warmth without burning through boxes of tissues.
Understanding pollen allergies
A pollen allergy is your immune system’s over-zealous defence against something that’s usually harmless. When it spots pollen, it releases histamine and other chemicals that trigger the classic signs of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Common symptoms
- Itchy nose and clear discharge
- Red, itchy, watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Stinging throat
Possible effects
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating and fatigue
- Worsening asthma
Your body sees pollen from one or more plants as an attack. Allergies can develop over time, and there is a hereditary component, meaning that you are more at risk of suffering from them if a member of your family also has them.
In early spring, the main pollen-producing plants are trees such as birch, oak, ash and many others. Grasses (wheat, hay, corn) are responsible for a second wave in late spring, and ragweed ends the season in late summer.
Preventing allergies: simple, effective gestures
Reducing your exposure to pollen is one key principle for lessening the impact of your allergies on a daily basis.
- Adjust your schedule: Avoid going out early in the morning or evening, when pollen is more prevalent.
- Monitor weather forecasts for pollen levels.
- To reduce pollen entry into the home, keep windows closed, wash and change clothes when you get home, and avoid drying clothes outside.
- Purify the air: Beware of air exchangers that let pollen into the house. Air conditioning may be a good option in summer. Air purifiers with certified pollen filters are also available.
Treatments to relieve symptoms
Despite preventive measures, allergy symptoms may still affect you. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter and prescription medication options available.
Antihistamines
They help reduce the onset of allergy symptoms, especially when taken before exposure. They can be used throughout the allergy season. Beware of tablets that may cause drowsiness. Consult your health care professional to ensure the product is suitable for you.
Nasal sprays
Over-the-counter saline sprays are useful for cleaning pollen from the nose, relieving runny noses and congestion.
At the back of the pharmacy counter, there are options with corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation of the nose and eyes.
Teardrops
Artificial tears help clean the eye and relieve irritation. Prescription formulations that provide localized relief for eye irritation are also available.
Decongestants
They can be useful for short periods, but not for everyone. When used in nasal sprays or drops, they should not be used beyond the period recommended on the packaging, as they can cause rebound congestion.
In all cases, ask your pharmacist for advice to help you choose the best treatment for you.
Desensitization: treating allergy at its roots
Immunotherapy desensitization is a treatment option for certain people with severe allergy symptoms who are not relieved by basic treatments.
The technique involves regularly giving your body small quantities of allergens (in injectable or tablet form) so that it becomes accustomed to them and no longer reacts as strongly to those in the environment. In other words, the aim is for the body to develop tolerance and for allergy symptoms to diminish.
Treatment usually lasts 3 to 5 years, and the effects may last over time. An allergy specialist generally prescribes it and requires medical follow-up.
Conclusion
Don't let seasonal allergies keep you from enjoying the good weather! By combining prevention and treatment, you can limit your symptoms and continue your activities without being overly affected.