Spring allergies: how to identify and prevent them

Spring is a season to look forward to with its longer days, pleasant temperatures and explosion of flowers and colours. However, it is also the peak season for seasonal allergies. Symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and nasal congestion affect millions of people. In this article, you will learn how to identify spring allergies, their causes and how to prevent them effectively.

What are spring allergies?

Spring allergies are overreactions of the immune system to substances that, although harmless to most people, trigger uncomfortable symptoms in sensitive individuals. The main allergens in spring include:

• Tree pollens: such as olive, shade plane, birch and oak.

• Grass and weed pollens: which proliferate in fields and parks.

• Mould spores: Generated by fungi that grow in damp places.

When an allergic person inhales these allergens, their immune system mistakenly identifies them as a threat, releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. This causes symptoms such as:

• Nasal congestion and frequent sneezing.

• Itchy eyes, nose and throat.

• Tearing and redness in the eyes.

• Fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

• Dry cough or throat irritation.

Differences between spring allergy and the common cold

It is easy to confuse a spring allergy with a cold, as they share similar symptoms. However, there are key differences:

• Duration of symptoms: Allergies can persist for weeks or even months, while a common cold usually lasts less than 10 days.

• Fever and body aches: Common in colds, but rare in allergies.

• Clear, watery mucus: Usually indicates allergy, as opposed to the yellowish or greenish mucus of a cold.

• Intense itching of the eyes or throat: This is a characteristic symptom of allergies, not a cold.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see an allergist for skin tests or blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Risk factors and vulnerable people

Although anyone can develop spring allergies, some people are at higher risk because of:

• Family history: If one or both parents have allergies, they are more likely to inherit them.

• Asthma or atopic dermatitis: People with these conditions are more prone to respiratory allergies.

• Prolonged exposure to allergens: Such as living near wooded areas or farming areas.

• Sensitive immune system: Some people have a greater genetic predisposition to react to environmental allergens.

Practical tips for preventing spring allergies

Although they cannot be completely avoided, there are effective ways to reduce exposure to allergens and minimise symptoms:

• Control the indoor environment:

  • Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering the house.

  • Use air conditioners with HEPA filters to purify the air.

  • Dust regularly with damp cloths to prevent pollen build-up.

  • Wash sheets and curtains frequently in hot water.

    
    

• Precautions when going outdoors:

  • Avoid going out at times of high pollen concentration, usually in the morning and evening.

  • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.

  • When you return home, take a shower and change your clothes to remove pollen.

• Personal care:

  • Avoid hanging clothes outdoors, as pollen can stick to them.

  • Use face masks on days with high pollen counts or when doing outdoor activities.

    
    

• Treatments and medications:

  • Oral antihistamines: These help to reduce itching, sneezing and congestion. Our recommendation is Reactine.

  • Decongestants: Relieve nasal congestion, such as Fitonasal.

  • Artificial tears: Relieve eye itching and redness, such as Reactine Eye Drops.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional to choose the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and medical history.

Natural treatments and complementary alternatives

If you prefer more natural methods, there are also alternatives that can help relieve symptoms:

• Saline nasal washes: These help remove pollen and other allergens from the nasal passages.

• Quercetin supplements: An antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables, known to reduce allergic reactions. You can also find it in our pharmacy as a supplement from Solaray.

• Probiotics: Some studies suggest that a healthy gut can help strengthen the immune system and reduce allergies. We always recommend GSE Symbiotic Probiotic.

When to see a doctor

If your allergies significantly affect your quality of life, or if your symptoms worsen and do not respond to conventional treatments, it is advisable to see a doctor. Also, if you experience severe symptoms such as

• Difficulty breathing.

• Chest pain.

• Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat. This could be a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) requiring urgent medical attention.