Allergic rhinitis, and in particular pollen allergy, also known as hay fever, affects 20% of children aged 9 and over and 30% of adults in France. In recent decades, the incidence of pollen allergy has increased considerably. Contrary to popular belief, allergies can occur at any age. Many people tend to downplay their symptoms and normalize them by telling themselves “it will go away on its own, it’s always like that at this time of year.” Far from it, any allergic rhinitis, however mild, should be the subject of a consultation with the treating physicianwho will refer you to an allergist if necessary.
What are the symptoms of pollen allergy?
Pollen allergy mainly manifests itself by sneezing, itchy nose, watery eyes, runny nose and nasal congestion. Symptoms occur when pollen gets into the eyes or enters the respiratory tract.
How to treat pollen allergy?
The treatment is based on two parts: the prescription ofantihistamines to relieve symptoms, and desensitization which consists of administering allergen extracts to the allergic subject in order to modulate their immune system and gradually increase their tolerance. At the same time, it is appropriate toadopt some good reflexes such as: ventilate your home at the start or end of the day, wear sunglasses outside, wash your hair after each walk to eliminate pollen, do not dry your sheets outside and avoid running outside during pollen season.
Loss of quality of life
Pollen allergy significantly impairs quality of life. Untreated allergy symptoms can disrupt sleepleading to a fatigue diurnal. “Allergies represent the leading cause of loss of productivity in the world. And for good reason, broken nights due to nasal congestion, sneezing, rhinorrhea and oropharyngeal pruritus (itchy nose, throat and ears), make necessarily irritable during the day Antihistamines can also have a sedative effect. headache which prevent us from concentrating and reduce our ability to work. It has also been proven that students suffering from pollen allergies have lower grades.details Dr Édouard Sève.
A breeding ground for infections
Untreated, pollen allergy can cause chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. Thus irritated and inflamed, allergic subjects are more likely to develop infectionssuch as colds or ear infections.
A risk of asthma
“An untreated pollen allergy is likely to lead toasthmawhich is responsible for nearly 1,000 deaths per year in France, a significant portion of which are children and adolescents., alerts the allergist. This chronic disease of the bronchi results in chest tightness, attacks of shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheezing and, sometimes, permanent difficulty breathing. Treatment of allergic rhinitis is therefore essential to prevent the occurrence of asthma and improve its symptoms.
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