Seasonal allergies in spring: how to avoid them and relieve your symptoms?

Spring is back... and so are seasonal allergies! With the arrival of fine weather, pollens from trees, grasses and herbaceous plants invade the air, triggering allergic reactions in many people that can be extremely annoying.

Sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, fatigue... These symptoms can disrupt your daily routine. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to prevent pollen allergies and alleviate their effects.

Why are we allergic to pollen?

Pollen allergy, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, is a reaction of the immune system to natural particles in the air: pollen.

Depending on the plant and the season, different types of pollen can cause allergies:

• Spring: tree pollens (birch, plane tree, oak...)
  
  
• Summer: grass pollens (wheat, rye, grass, lawn...)
  
  
• Late summer / autumn: herbaceous pollens (ragweed, mugwort...)
  
  

Sensitive individuals may experience symptoms from the very first exposure, with varying degrees of intensity.

What are the symptoms of seasonal allergies?

The most common signs of a pollen allergy often resemble those of a persistent cold:

• Repeated sneezing
  
  
• Stuffy or runny nose
  
  
• Red, itchy or watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
  
  
• Dry cough, sore throat
  
  
• Fatigue, headaches
  
  
• Shortness of breath (in asthmatics)

6 ways to limit your exposure to pollen

Here are some simple steps you can take on a daily basis to make the most of pollen season:

1. Air your home at the right times

Open your windows early in the morning or late at night, when pollen levels are lower.

2. Wash up after every outing

Pollens settle on skin, hair and clothing. Shower and change your clothes when you get home.

3. Protect your eyes and respiratory tract

Wear sunglasses outdoors and use saline solution to clean your eyes and nose.

4. Avoid drying your laundry outdoors

Pollens can cling to clothing and bed linen. Dry them indoors.

5. Consult the pollen forecast

Many applications allow you to monitor pollen levels in real time. Avoid going out during peak periods.

6. Clean your home regularly

Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, and remember to ventilate and purify the air in your home.

What treatments are available to relieve seasonal allergies?

If, despite your precautions, the symptoms persist, there are several treatments that can help:

• Antihistamines (over-the-counter or prescription) to reduce allergic reactions
  
  
• Nasal corticoids: to soothe inflamed mucous membranes
  
  
• Anti-allergic eye drops: to relieve eye irritation
  
  
• Desensitization (immunotherapy): a background treatment that reduces pollen sensitivity over the long term

When should you consult a healthcare professional?

Allergies can worsen or become chronic. In the event of persistent or worsening symptoms (asthma, severe conjunctivitis, intense fatigue), medical consultation is recommended.

Teleconsult a doctor from your pharmacy

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Conclusion: enjoy spring without suffering

Spring is a wonderful season, but it can quickly become uncomfortable for allergy sufferers. By adopting the right precautions and seeking advice if necessary, you can make the most of the pollen season.

Take care of yourself, anticipate pollen peaks and don't hesitate to ask for help.

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