Now the pollen season starts: How to handle pollen allergy

What is pollen allergy?

Pollen allergy occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to pollen particles from trees, grass, and weeds. When pollen particles are inhaled, the immune system recognizes them as harmful, even though they are actually harmless. This results in the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances, leading to symptoms such as itching, sneezing, a stuffy nose, and watery eyes. The intensity of pollen allergy can vary depending on the type of pollen and its concentration in the air, and symptoms may worsen during periods with high pollen counts.

Symptoms of pollen allergy

The symptoms of pollen allergy can range from mild to severe and often depend on the pollen concentration in the air. The most common symptoms include sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy and red eyes, and runny nose. Many also experience fatigue, headache, and difficulty concentrating as a result of the persistent symptoms. In people with asthma, pollen allergy can worsen symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. In particularly severe cases, the allergy can trigger strong reactions that require medical treatment.

Here is a list of the most common symptoms of pollen allergy:

1. Sneezing – often repeated sneezing without a cold.
2. Runny or blocked nose – typically with watery discharge.
3. Itchy, red, or watery eyes – also known as allergic conjunctivitis.
4. Itching in the nose, mouth, and throat – may feel like irritation or tingling.
5. Breathing difficulties - especially in people with asthma or bronchitis.
6. Headache and fatigue - as a result of persistent symptoms.
7. Chest tightness and wheezing – may worsen during periods of high pollen counts.

Seasonal symptoms

The pollen season can be a major challenge for many allergy sufferers. Pollen allergy can be divided into spring, summer, and autumn seasons, depending on the plants that release pollen. Birch pollen is particularly prevalent in the spring, while grass pollen peaks in the summer and mugwort pollen in the autumn. For those with hay fever, the symptoms can be so pronounced that they affect sleep, concentration, and daily activities.

List of pollen allergies

Pollen allergies can vary depending on the specific plants that release pollen into the air. Here are some of the most common types of pollen allergies:

1. Birch pollen allergy: Particularly prevalent in the spring and known to cause hay fever and itchy eyes.
2. Grass pollen allergy: Primarily occurs during the summer months and can trigger severe respiratory symptoms.
3. Mugwort pollen allergy: Often seen in late summer and can be worsened by hot, dry periods.
4. Alder and Hazel: These trees release pollen in early spring and can trigger symptoms before the birch season starts.
5. Mold spores: Although technically not pollen, airborne mold spores can trigger allergy symptoms and should therefore also be mentioned in connection with seasonal allergies.

Allergy diagnostics

The diagnosis of allergies typically begins with a thorough medical history and clinical examination. A skin prick test can be used to quickly identify specific allergens. In this test, small amounts of different allergens are applied to the skin, which is then lightly pricked to see if a reaction occurs.

Blood tests can also be used to measure the level of IgE antibodies, which increase during allergic reactions. In some cases, an elimination test may be necessary, where you avoid certain foods or substances to observe changes in the symptoms.

A thorough allergy investigation can provide answers to which pollens you are reacting to. At Doctors in Denmark, we offer skin prick tests and blood tests that can identify specific allergens.

Allergy treatment

Allergy treatment depends on the type of allergen and the symptoms. Antihistamines are often used to relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose. For more pronounced symptoms, the doctor may prescribe corticosteroids, which have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce swelling. For patients with life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis, an epinephrine pen is crucial for acute treatment. Immunotherapy can be an effective solution for those with severe pollen allergies. By exposing the body to small, controlled doses of the allergen over time, the immune system can gradually get used to the substance, thereby reducing the reactions.

One of the biggest advantages of immunotherapy is that it not only relieves the symptoms but can also change the course of the disease by reducing the body's hypersensitivity to pollen. The treatment can reduce the need for medication such as antihistamines and steroids and can have a long-lasting effect that lasts for several years after the treatment is completed. In addition, immunotherapy can reduce the risk of developing new allergies and reduce the likelihood of developing asthma in children and adolescents.

Seek medical help for serious symptoms

While mild allergy symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medication, it is important to seek medical attention for severe or persistent symptoms. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment, and people with a known risk should always have an adrenaline pen on hand. At Doctors in Denmark, we offer comprehensive allergy testing, including skin prick tests, blood tests and immunotherapy. Book an appointment to develop a personalized treatment plan that can help you live an allergy-free life.

At Doctors in Denmark, we are ready to advise and help you manage your allergy symptoms. Book a consultation today for a thorough allergy examination and personalized treatment plan.