What Should Those with Allergies Pay Attention to in the Spring Period

Spring allergy is also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis caused by pollen. This allergy, which is common in Türkiye, intensifies between March and May and can affect people's quality of life. Those with allergies should know the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment methods, protection methods and possible complications of spring allergy. In addition, those with allergies should know what to pay attention to, especially during this season.

Causes of Spring Allergy

Spring allergy occurs as a result of the immune system overreacting to pollens in the air. Pollens are the reproductive cells of plants such as trees, grasses and weeds. While the most common tree species that cause allergies in Türkiye include plane trees, olive trees and birch trees, grasses such as couch grass and English ryegrass are also important allergens.

Pollen carried by the wind can aggravate allergy symptoms. Factors such as air pollution, windy weather, and high humidity increase the risk of allergies by increasing pollen density. Family history and genetic predisposition can also increase susceptibility to allergies. Climate change can increase the risk and severity of allergies by extending the pollen season and increasing pollen density.

Spring Allergy Symptoms

Spring allergy symptoms usually appear at the beginning of the pollen season and can continue throughout the season. The most common symptoms are:

Runny nose
Sneezing
Nasal congestion
Itchy and watery eyes
Other possible symptoms may include sore throat, cough, headache, fatigue, skin rash or itching. The severity and duration of symptoms vary from person to person and depending on the pollen density.

Spring allergy symptoms can be confused with cold or flu symptoms. However, symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and general weakness are usually not seen in allergies. Spring allergy symptoms in children may be different from adults. For example, complications such as otitis media and sinusitis, which are more common in children, may occur.

Spring Allergy Diagnosis

Spring allergy diagnosis is made as a result of examination and tests performed by an allergy specialist (allergy immunologist). The methods used for allergy diagnosis are as follows:

Skin tests (prick test, intradermal test): In these tests, a small amount of allergen substance is injected into the patient's arm or back. Redness, swelling or itching on the skin indicate allergy sensitivity.

Blood tests (specific IgE antibodies): In these tests, the level of specific IgE antibodies against pollen in the patient's blood is measured. A high IgE level indicates allergy sensitivity.

Skin tests are effective in quickly and easily determining allergy sensitivity. However, in some cases, blood tests are preferred. For example, in cases where skin tests cannot be performed, blood tests are preferred in cases of drug use or common skin diseases.

It should not be forgotten that correct diagnosis is extremely important for effective treatment. You can get accurate information about spring allergy diagnosis and treatment by consulting an allergist.

Spring Allergy Treatment Methods

Spring allergy treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment methods include drug therapy, allergy vaccination (immunotherapy) and lifestyle changes.

Drug therapy is used to relieve allergy symptoms. The medications used are:

Antihistamines (oral and nasal): These medications reduce allergic reactions by blocking the effects of a chemical called histamine.

Decongestants (oral and nasal): These medications are used to reduce nasal congestion.

Corticosteroids (nasal and oral): These medications are used to reduce inflammation and relieve allergy symptoms.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists: These medications reduce allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of inflammatory substances called leukotrienes.

Allergy vaccination (immunotherapy) is used to reduce sensitivity to pollen. The vaccine contains small doses of pollen extracts and is administered at regular intervals. It may take several years for the vaccine to be effective, but it can provide a long-term solution. The vaccine can be administered as a subcutaneous injection or sublingual drops.

Natural and Alternative Treatments

Some natural and alternative treatment methods can also be used to protect against spring allergies or relieve their symptoms. However, the effectiveness of these methods has not been scientifically proven and should be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Herbal treatments may include plants such as nettle, chamomile, and sage. It is thought that these plants can help reduce allergic reactions. However, it should be noted that herbal medications can have side effects and interact with other medications.

Nasal irrigation (with physiological serum solutions) can help clear pollen accumulated in the nasal cavity. Honey consumption can reduce the effects on pollen allergy