Seasonal allergy season arrives earlier and more intensely In many areas, due to the fluctuating temperatures at the end of winter, more people are experiencing sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose just as pollen begins to circulate strongly, How long does allergy season last?.
Experts warn that global warming and environmental changes are lengthening pollination periods., which increases exposure to allergens and can affect sleep, concentration, and daily performance; extreme caution should be exercised with over-the-counter medications.
What's happening with seasonal allergies?
Heat waves in mid-August can bring forward pollination, so trees and plants release their pollen earlier and some people begin to notice symptoms even before the meteorological spring.
Increased CO2, urbanization and pollution aggravate the allergic response, since polluting particles can enhance the effect of pollen and the population is exposed from an earlier age.
In certain regions, it is estimated that up to 30% of the population suffers from allergic rhinitis., with pollens such as grasses, London plane trees, and olive trees as the main pollen sources; in drought-stricken environments, trees can prolong their pollination phase.
Recent evidence suggests links between COVID-19 and allergic respiratory problemsA large analysis of health records found a 66% increased risk of asthma, a 74% increased risk of chronic sinusitis, and a 27% increased risk of hay fever after infection; vaccination was associated with a lower risk of asthma, and comparisons between infected and vaccinated individuals showed more than double the risk of asthma or sinusitis and a 40% increased risk of allergic rhinitis in those who had been infected; these are associations, not proven causality.
To reduce pollen load in the indoor environment It is recommended to close windows on high count days, use filters, and maintain regular cleaning to minimize dust and mites.
Symptoms and how to distinguish an allergy from a cold
Allergic rhinitis usually presents with rapid sneezing, itchy eyes, nose and throat., watery runny nose, tearing, nasal congestion and sometimes fatigue and difficulty concentrating due to poor rest.
Unlike a cold, allergies do not usually cause fever or muscle aches.; In addition, eye and nasal itching is more pronounced, and mucus tends to be clear and fluid, while in viral infections it thickens and changes color.
Allergy coughs can be dry and cause postnasal drip.; In colds, a sore throat and productive cough are more common, especially in the first few days of the illness.
Duration also guidesColds usually improve within 5-7 days and subside within about two weeks, while allergy symptoms persist as long as there is exposure to the allergen. Colds are contagious, but allergies are not.
Treatment and prevention: what to do and what to avoid
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an allergist, pulmonologist or an ENT specialist. to confirm the diagnosis, assess associated asthma or sinusitis, and design an individualized management plan.
Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids are effective in controlling rhinitis., but its use should be supervised; indiscriminate self-medication can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, heart rhythm disturbances, and interactions with other treatments.
Pharmaceutical advice is key to the safe use of over-the-counter drugs.; the fact that a medication doesn't require a prescription doesn't mean it's risk-free, so health education helps prevent errors and duplications.
Practical measures that add up: Thoroughly clean your home, change air conditioning filters, avoid airing early in the morning when pollen levels are high, wear sunglasses or a mask outdoors, and shower upon arriving home to remove particles.
Outdoors, better physical activity during hours with lower pollen loadIf driving, keeping your windows closed and using filtration systems can significantly reduce your exposure.
The combination of early diagnosis, responsible use of medication and preventive habits It allows you to cope with allergy season with less discomfort, especially in a context of longer and more variable seasons.
