Warming Weather and Allergy Symptoms
Air temperatures are expected to rise again in the coming days. This change will bring about allergy complaints along with the awakening of nature. Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Özlem Çakmak Yılmaz emphasizes that allergy symptoms will increase as the weather warms, flowers bloom and trees turn green. An allergy is an exaggerated response the body gives to substances that are not normally harmful.
What is Allergy and How Does It Develop?
Allergies occur when the body overreacts to substances such as house dust mites, pollen, and foods. This exaggerated response can sometimes be seen throughout the body, or in certain parts of the body. If it occurs in the eyes, it is called allergic conjunctivitis; if it occurs in the upper respiratory tract, it is called allergic rhinitis (hay fever); if it occurs in the lungs, it is called asthma; and if it occurs on the skin, it is called urticaria, eczema, or contact dermatitis.
Situation of Allergic Diseases in Türkiye
There has been a noticeable increase in the frequency of allergic diseases in recent years. This increase is explained by the “hygiene hypothesis”. The hygiene hypothesis argues that social and economic development, along with improved hygiene standards, alienation from natural life and changing eating habits, have led to excessive response reactions in the immune system. According to research, one in every 10 children in Türkiye suffers from asthma and one in every 4 children suffers from allergic rhinitis. If one of the parents is allergic, the risk of the child developing an allergy is 30%, while if both parents are allergic, this rate increases to 60%.
Spring Allergy Symptoms
The main causes of spring allergies are pollens spread from trees and grasses. Pollen accumulates in the air by sticking to the nose, eyes and throat. The runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes that are frequently seen in the spring months are known among the public as hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Children often make a movement by lifting their noses up due to itching and discharge; this movement can cause horizontal lines on the bridge of the nose. This condition is called the “allergic salute”. In addition, color changes and bruising can be observed under the eyes.
The First Step in Allergy Treatment: Allergen Avoidance
The most basic step in allergy treatment is to avoid allergens. Although it is difficult to completely prevent exposure to allergy-causing substances, it is possible to take some precautions on days when pollen is high in the air. Here are some precautions that can be taken to protect yourself from allergies:
- Going out in windy weather should be avoided.
- Windows should be kept closed.
- When coming from outside, clothes should be changed and a bath should be taken.
- The time spent outdoors should be limited between 10:00 and 16:00 during the day.
- Home and car windows should be kept closed, and if possible, filters that can trap pollen should be used.
- The house should be wet mopped regularly.
- If going out is necessary, it may be helpful to wear a face mask and glasses.
Despite all these precautions, people whose complaints continue may need to resort to drug treatment.
Pollen Exposure and Monitoring
Nowadays, the amount of pollen and spores in the air can be determined by volumetric methods. Daily pollen status in Izmir can be followed via the “Izmir Pollen Allergy Bulletin” website managed by Ege University and the General Directorate of Meteorology. This site provides the opportunity to monitor the dominant pollen types in the atmosphere for Izmir and its surroundings and daily and hourly pollen exposures adjusted according to meteorological weather forecasts.
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Allergic diseases are a significant health problem that threatens children's health, especially in the spring months due to increased pollen. Recognizing the symptoms of allergies and avoiding allergenic substances are very important for a healthy life. Families need to be careful about their children's illnesses and take the necessary precautions.
