What is Spring Allergy?

Spring allergy, commonly referred to as seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever, is an immune system disorder triggered by pollen prevalent in the air during spring and autumn. The immune system mistakenly identifies pollen as a threat, prompting the release of chemicals like histamine, which cause symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

Spring allergies are typically triggered by pollen from:

• Tree pollen: oak, poplar, sycamore, birch, pine, etc.
• Grass pollen: wheatgrass, meadow grass, oats, etc.
• Weed pollen: chamomile, ragweed, wormwood, etc.

Symptoms of Spring Allergy

Spring allergy symptoms may intensify during periods of elevated pollen levels. Common symptoms include:

1. Constant Sneezing: Pollen irritates the nasal lining, leading to frequent sneezing, often more pronounced in the morning.

2. Runny Nose and Nasal Congestion: Excess fluid production in the nasal passages to expel pollen results in a runny nose and congestion. Note: In spring allergies, nasal discharge is typically clear and watery. A dark yellow or green color may indicate an infection.

3. Itchy and Watery Eyes: Contact with pollen can cause burning, itching, and watering of the eyes, a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis, which can also lead to redness and swelling.

4. Itchy Throat and Cough: An allergic reaction might cause itching and a tickling sensation in the throat, leading to a dry cough, particularly in those with significant nasal discharge.

5. Weakness and Fatigue: Nasal congestion can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and difficulties in focusing throughout the day.

Methods to Prevent Spring Allergies

While it may not be possible to entirely eliminate spring allergies, symptoms can be minimized with certain measures:

1. Avoiding Pollen Peak Hours: Pollen levels are especially high in the morning and during windy conditions.

Recommendation: If possible, avoid going out between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Stay away from parks and gardens on windy days.

2. Shower and Change Clothes After Being Outdoors: After returning home, change your clothes and wash your hair if possible. Pollen can adhere to clothing and hair, potentially spreading indoors and causing nighttime nasal congestion.

3. Shield Your Home and Car from Pollen:

Home Precautions: Keep windows and doors closed, particularly in the morning. Regularly clean ventilation filters and consider using air purifiers with pollen filters.

Car Precautions: Keep windows closed and regularly change the air conditioner filter.

4. Cleanse Your Nasal Passages with Saline: Pollen clinging to the nasal lining can cause sneezing and a runny nose. Clearing your nose with saline helps alleviate allergy symptoms by removing pollen.

It’s recommended to perform nasal cleansing 2-3 times a day using a saline spray or solution.

5. Dietary Tips for Allergy-Prone Individuals: Consuming foods that enhance the immune system and balance histamine levels may lessen the severity of spring allergies.

Foods to consume:

• Omega-3 Rich Foods: Salmon, walnuts, flaxseed
• Vitamin C Rich Foods: Oranges, lemons, peppers
• Natural Antihistamines: Onion, garlic, turmeric

Foods to avoid:

• Spicy foods
• Processed foods and excessive sugar
• Dairy products (may increase mucus production in some allergic individuals)