Pollen allergies are becoming more common.
This condition, better known as hay fever, is very unpleasant and can even be very serious for some people.
So what are the solutions to treat and avoid this disease? We will see together what treatments are available today against pollen allergies.
You can also find our special file on pollen in general .
1. Identify the allergen
First of all, you have to know the source of the allergy in order to find the right solution.
For this, a consultation with an allergist is necessary to check whether the symptoms are related to allergic reactions or not.
A blood test can determine if the allergen is a pollen, animal, food or chemical. Once the allergen is identified, the appropriate treatment can be determined.
2. Limit exposure
The first step is often to limit exposure to the allergen. It is possible to reduce or completely eliminate its contact with the allergen in order to reduce the symptoms.
In the case of pollen allergies, this means avoiding places with lots of pollen:
- like the fields
- stay inside
- close doors and windows
- use air conditioners and air purifiers.
- use a suitable mask outdoors
In addition, keeping a calendar of pollen peaks can help to know the days when the risk of allergy is greatest and thus take the necessary precautions.
3. Use allergy medications
Symptoms of a pollen allergy can be relieved by antihistamine medications or corticosteroids that block allergy-causing substances.
These medications can be taken before exposure to the allergen, after exposure, or even for prevention, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
Some medications can also be given by injection for faster and stronger action. It is therefore important to consult a doctor to choose the most suitable drug for each situation.
You can also find the list of 9 antihistamines to fight your allergies
4. Take immunotherapy treatment
Immunotherapeutic treatment, better known as allergy therapy, can be considered for people allergic to pollen.
This is a method that consists of administering a gradually increasing dose of the product responsible for the allergy so that the body gets used to and becomes less sensitive to the allergen.
This treatment is usually offered over a period of 3 years and can significantly reduce allergy symptoms.
5. Avoid aggravating factors
Finally, certain factors can aggravate allergy symptoms such as:
- the tobacco
- the alcohol
- the stress
- sudden changes in temperature
It is therefore important to limit these factors to limit allergic symptoms.
Pollen allergies are increasingly common and can lead to very unpleasant symptoms.
Fortunately, there are several solutions to limit these symptoms, including identifying the allergen, limiting exposure to the allergen, using anti-allergy medications, following immunotherapy treatment and avoidance of aggravating factors.
A consultation with an allergist is recommended to determine the best treatment for each person.