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Pollen allergy: a seasonal test for the body
What is pollen allergy?
Pollen allergy is one of the most common types of seasonal allergies, which occurs in response to contact with plant pollen. It is also called hay fever or hay fever. In this case, the immune system perceives the pollen as a danger and triggers a protective reaction - immunoglobulin E (IgE) is produced, which provokes the release of histamine. It is histamine that causes the symptoms familiar to everyone: runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing.
When does pollen allergy occur?
Pollen allergy has seasonal nature, which depends on the flowering period of different plants:
Spring (April–May) — trees: birch, alder, poplar, hazel
Summer (June–July) — cereal grasses: timothy, fescue, oats, rye
Late summer – autumn (August–October) — weeds: ragweed, wormwood, quinoa
Some people are affected by several types of pollen at once, which leads to cross-allergy or a prolonged period of symptoms.
Symptoms of pollen allergy
Allergic reactions can be mild or severe, and include:
Respiratory symptoms: sneezing, nasal congestion, watery discharge, itchy nose
Eye symptoms: redness, itching, tearing
Cough, sore throat, sometimes wheezing
General manifestations: rapid fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances
In severe cases — bronchospasm, shortness of breath, allergic asthma
Diagnosis of pollen allergy
1. IgE allergy screening
A blood test showing the presence of elevated levels of specific antibodies to pollen.
2. Skin prick tests
They are performed in the off-season. Drops of allergens are applied to the skin and light scratches are made. If redness appears, the allergen has been detected.
3. Molecular diagnostics
It identifies specific pollen molecules that the body reacts to. This is important in case of cross-reactions (for example, birch pollen - apple).
Practical example
The patient complains of an annual runny nose and red eyes from April to June. Allergy tests revealed sensitivity to birch, alder, and timothy pollen. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) significantly reduced symptoms in the second year of treatment.
Comparison of allergy control methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Antihistamines | Quickly relieves symptoms | They don't treat the cause, the effect is temporary |
| Corticosteroid sprays | Reduces inflammation, effective for severe rhinitis | Possible side effects with long-term use |
| Barrier products (gels, sprays) | Forms a protective film on the mucous membrane | Needs regular updating |
| ASIT (immunotherapy) | The only method that affects the cause of allergies | Long-term treatment (3–5 years), not suitable for everyone |
How to make life easier during pollen season
Follow flowering calendar in your region
Don't open windows during the day — it is better to air at night or early in the morning
After the street - wash your face, hands, hair and change your clothes
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
Install in the car cabin filters against pollen
Avoid walking in dry and windy weather
If possible - travel during the flowering period to regions with low pollen concentration
Pollen allergy is not a death sentence. Timely diagnosis, proper prevention, and modern treatment allow you to control symptoms and not lose quality of life even during the peak of flowering.
