At the Medical Center , we asked our allergy specialist, Dr. Cecilia Cases MN 10449, to help us cope with the allergy season as best as possible. 

Why do allergies intensify in spring, and what are the most common allergens of the season?

For many people, the arrival of spring means colorful, flowery landscapes, rising temperatures, and brighter sunshine. However, for some people, this season is synonymous with allergies. synonymous with allergies. Seasonal allergies are a group of diseases that cause sneezing, shortness of breath, runny nose, and itchy eyes; the symptoms are similar to those of the common cold, although allergies are not caused by a virus and are not  accompanied by fever.

Seasonal rhinitis is mainly induced by pollen from trees, grasses, and   weeds that are prevalent in spring and summer. Among these allergens, grass pollen is the most important, receiving its own name in some countries, known as "hay fever." Under normal circumstances, people breathe in these substances without any problems. However, people who suffer from seasonal allergies, their immune system recognizes these substances as allergenic and generates an abnormal response in the body, which produces the symptoms.

Are there differences between seasonal allergies and permanent allergies? How can you tell them apart?

The main difference between seasonal and perennial (or year-round) allergies is the duration of symptoms and the allergens that cause them. Seasonal rhinitis occurs during specific seasons and is triggered by outdoor allergens outdoor allergens such as pollen, while perennial rhinitis lasts all year round and is caused by indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or airborne fungi .

What simple steps can we take at home to reduce exposure to pollen and other allergens?

Reducing exposure to allergy-triggering substances prevents symptoms, but in many cases this is not possible. It is important to know the type of pollen that causes the allergy: this way, you can find out during which months of the year pollen levels are highest pollen levels are highest and avoid exposure to these plants. To minimize contact: Do not engage in outdoor activities during periods of high pollen count: avoid especially parks, gardens, and green areas in general. Keep windows in your home closed: if you want to air out your home, it is best to do so first thing in the or early afternoon. If traveling by car, keep the windows closed. Hang clothes indoors: this way, we can ensure that they are not impregnated with pollen.

When is it appropriate to resort to medication, and when is it better to undergo specific tests or treatments, such as allergy shots?

When symptoms interfere with daily activities, medications such as antihistamines can be used as needed for mild symptoms, or such as antihistamines used as needed for mild symptoms, or daily for frequent symptoms. Preventive medications called nasal steroids are more effective, but they must be used daily for maximum effectiveness, always with a doctor's prescription. The only treatment that reverses the allergy is desensitization treatments or "immunotherapy," which can be administered subcutaneously or sublingually, are the only ones that are effective in the long term.

Can allergies change over the years? Can we "cure" them, or can we only learn to live with them?

The incidence of allergies decreases with age, due to changes related to the immune system . Accurate diagnosis and specific treatment by an allergist can reduce the incidence and severity of symptoms, improving quality ofof life.

Cecilia Cases
MN 104496