Seasonal Allergies in Spring: A Manageable Seasonal Affliction
Seasonal allergies in this chapter, their causes, and ways to prevent them, whether abroad:
With the onset of spring, warmth returns and nature blossoms around us. However, this time of year is not a happy one for everyone. A large number of people, both inside and outside Morocco, suffer from seasonal allergies, specifically pollen allergies or hay fever. It is a common condition that affects the respiratory system and eyes and can significantly impact quality of life, especially when not treated seriously.
In this article, we will delve into the details of this condition: its causes, types, symptoms, prevention methods, diagnosis and treatment methods, differences in impact between countries, and daily recommendations for living comfortably during allergy season.
First: What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to harmless substances present in the environment, such as pollen, dust, mold, or animal dander. In spring, pollen from flowering plants, such as grasses and trees, is abundant, stimulating the body to release histamine, the primary cause of allergy symptoms.
Types of Allergens in Spring
1. Pollen
This is the primary source of allergies during this season.
It is divided into:
Tree pollen (such as olive, pine, and cedar)
Wild grass pollen
Grass pollen, such as ragweed
2. House dust
Dust movement increases inside homes with changing blankets and spring cleaning.
In some humid areas, fungi are prevalent in the air during spring.
4. Pet dander
With heavy hair loss during this season, skin and respiratory allergies may increase.
Comparison: Allergies in Morocco and Abroad
In Morocco:
Allergy rates are higher in areas such as:
Fez, Meknes, Souss-Massa, Marrakech
Dry winds (such as Chergui) carry pollen long distances. The lack of systems to monitor pollen levels in the air makes preparedness difficult.
The spread of conventional agriculture increases the amount of allergens.
In Europe and North America:
There are medical apps and services that alert residents daily to pollen levels in the air.
Air purifiers are widely used in homes.
Medical support is more available for people with allergies.
Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms vary in severity from person to person, but they often include:
Frequent sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
Red, swollen eyes
Mild headache or a feeling of pressure in the face
Temporary loss of sense of smell
Sleep disturbances due to nighttime congestion
General fatigue and decreased concentration
Note: Children and the elderly are more susceptible to complications such as sinusitis or allergic asthma attacks.
How are allergies diagnosed?
It is recommended to visit an allergist or respiratory specialist for the following:
Blood test (IgE): To measure the antibodies produced by the body in response.
Skin Prick Test: The skin is pricked with a specific substance to detect an allergic reaction.
Evaluate personal and family medical history.
Daily Prevention and Control Methods
At home:
Use air purifiers in rooms.
Closing windows during peak times (usually morning).
Vacuum floors with a HEPA filter.
Wash bed linens weekly in hot water.
Maintain moderate humidity in the home to prevent mold growth.
Outdoors:
Wear a mask when going outside, especially on windy days.
Avoid flowering gardens, farms, or forests.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.
Wash your face and hands immediately upon returning home.
Change your clothes to reduce pollen transmission indoors.
Medical Treatments
1. Antihistamines
such as cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine
Relieve symptoms of sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
2. Steroid nasal sprays
Reduces inflammation and opens the airways.
It is best to use them regularly, not just as needed.
Helpful for itching and redness.
Given as injections or sublingual drops over a period of months, these can produce lasting results.
Natural Medicine and Supplements
Caution: These methods are not a substitute for medical treatment, but they are a useful complement.
Ginger tea: A natural anti-inflammatory.
Peppermint oil: Can be used as a vapor to open the airways.
Local honey: Said to help build immunity against local pollen (conflicting studies).
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Daily Life During Allergy Season: A 7-Day Plan
Today
Daily Recommendation
Monday
Monitor your pollen count and start medications early
Tuesday
Do your laundry as soon as you get home
Wednesday
Close your windows at night and use an air purifier
Thursday
Do light indoor exercise
Friday
Wear a face mask when you go out in the morning
Saturday
Clean your carpets with a HEPA vacuum
Sunday
See a doctor if your symptoms don't improve
Conclusion
Seasonal allergies aren't fatal, but they are annoying and disruptive. However, they can be successfully controlled with preventative advice, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment. Instead of running away from nature, we can adapt to it and live smartly.
Seasonal allergies in this chapter, their causes, and ways to prevent them, whether abroad:
Comments