In spring, allergies are often caused by plant pollination. Pollen grains spread in the air and trigger allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals.
Every spring, trees, grasses, and various herbs release thousands of tiny grains of pollen into the air for reproduction. This pollen, easily carried by the wind, enters the respiratory pathways or settles on the skin and eyes. In some individuals, pollen triggers an exaggerated reaction from the immune system: this is what causes seasonal allergies. Among the most common pollens that cause these allergies, you mainly find that of grasses (like lawn grass), certain trees such as birch or cypress, as well as herbaceous plants like ragweed. The more pollen in the air, the more pronounced the allergic symptoms become. That’s why warm and windy spring days are not necessarily good news for everyone!
Our immune system is designed to quickly detect and combat elements deemed dangerous to the body, such as viruses or bacteria. However, in some of us, it overreacts: it mistakenly interprets pollen as an enemy to be eliminated. This phenomenon is due to a sensitization of the body: when an allergic person comes into contact with pollen, their immune system produces specific antibodies, known as IgE. These antibodies attach to immune cells, such as mast cells, which then release large amounts of histamine. And it is this histamine that will cause inflammation, irritation, and other typical symptoms of seasonal allergies. In allergic individuals, the immune system thus reacts excessively to something that is ordinarily benign—much like if your body invented a danger where there is none.
Warm, sunny, and slightly windy spring days are ideal for the dispersion of pollen. When it's dry, pollen is lighter: it stays airborne longer and easily reaches your nose or eyes. Conversely, after rain, pollen sticks to the ground, temporarily relieving those who sneeze. High levels of pollution in the city weaken the airways, making them more reactive to pollen. Another reason: mild temperatures after a cold winter lead to a rapid explosion of blooming. The result: a lot of pollen at once, increasing the chance of allergies. Certain weather conditions, such as sudden temperature changes or an early spring, can also confuse your immune system, making it hypersensitive to pollen.
Spring allergies primarily involve a runny nose, repeated sneezing fits, and red, itchy eyes that are constantly bothering you. There’s often a mild respiratory discomfort due to a stuffy nose and sometimes a dry cough when pollen irritates the airways. The throat may also itch or tingle, giving the impression of an endless cold starting. Frequent fatigue is common too, because after all, battling pollen all day long is exhausting. Not to mention the infamous uncontrollable tearing that sometimes makes you look like you've been crying over a bad movie. These typical symptoms usually appear with the first nice days when vegetation releases its favorite pollutant: pollen.
To prevent seasonal allergies, limiting exposure to pollen is the best tactic. Avoid going out during peak pollen times, which are often dry and windy mornings; instead, go out after it rains, when the pollen is settled on the ground. At home, regular washing of hair and clothes helps to get rid of allergen particles accumulated throughout the day. For treatment, antihistamines will quickly relieve classic symptoms such as sneezing and itching. Some people prefer corticosteroid nasal sprays in case of significant discomfort. Finally, desensitization treatments, followed over a longer period, can help the body gradually tolerate pollen and significantly reduce symptoms each spring.
The birch is among the most allergenic trees in spring: its pollen can travel over very long distances (up to several hundred kilometers!) thanks to the wind.
The weather has a strong influence on pollen concentration: warm, dry, and windy days lead to increased pollen dispersion, while rain reduces its concentration in the air.
Did you know that a daily spoonful of local honey could potentially help your body gradually acclimate to the pollen in your area and reduce allergic reactions?
Allergies have been on the rise for several decades. Some researchers explain this increase by a decrease in our early exposure to certain microbes and allergens due to an overly sanitized environment, a theory known as the 'hygiene hypothesis'.
Although medical treatments are often recommended, some natural practices can help, such as nasal irrigation with saline solution, taking local honey (to gradually expose oneself to certain pollens), or treatments based on antihistamine plant extracts like nettle. However, their effectiveness varies from person to person.
A genetic predisposition can indeed play a role. If your parents suffer from seasonal allergies, you are more likely to suffer from them as well. However, the environment remains a determining factor in triggering allergies.
Yes, spring allergies can occur at any age, even in adulthood. This is due to changes in the environment, the immune system, or repeated exposure to certain types of pollen.
Certainly! Here is the translation: "Yes, often symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, nasal itching, or watery eyes can resemble a common cold. However, allergies generally last longer and are associated with increased presence or exposure to pollen."
Sure! Here’s the translation: “Yes, the weather plays an important role. Windy days disperse pollen more widely, while moderate rain can temporarily reduce the amount of pollen in the air. In contrast, hot and dry periods can worsen allergy symptoms.”
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