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Allergies during the year
Pollen allergies typically occur in spring and summer and usually manifest themselves as a runny nose, cough, scratchy throat and burning eyes. Skin symptoms such as urticaria and atopic eczema can also occur. In the colder months, it can also cause mould. However, Tereza Jeník, MD, pediatric pulmonologist, notes that year-round allergies, such as to house dust mites, are also prevalent in the population, and these are most pronounced in the fall and winter months.
An allergic reaction can initially resemble a virus, so if you're in doubt, it's ideal to see a doctor for a diagnosis. He or she can help patients with common allergies by administering antihistamines or other medications. However, if we want to find out the specific allergen that caused the reaction, it is necessary to undergo allergy testing. On the basis of this, the doctor can then determine not only the correct treatment, but also the appropriate regimen.
A modified regimen
Regimen measures include, for example, reducing contact with the allergen in question. Doctor Tereza Jeník advises to follow the pollen calendar, which describes the current concentration of the allergen in the air, which also depends on the current weather. On days when it is dry and windy, the concentration is high; when it is humid, there are fewer allergens in the air. "It is also a good idea, for example, to wash your face and hands with clean water. Pollen also tends to stick to clothing, so it is advisable to change clothes when you get home," adds Tereza Jeník, adding that on days with high allergen concentrations she recommends less ventilation. In the days of wearing masks and respirators, Tereza Jeník says some patients praise the fact that their allergy symptoms are milder.
Treatment options
The only treatment that targets the actual cause of the allergic reaction is so-called allergen immunotherapy. Pneumologist Tereza Jeník describes it as follows. This treatment works for most patients."
The unpleasant news, however, is that allergies can occur at any time in life. Some suffer from it from birth, others only in adulthood. "In children, it is typical that allergies initially manifest themselves skin-wise. These are mainly food allergies associated with atopic eczema," points out Tereza Jeník, adding that respiratory problems associated with allergies usually appear later.
"Pet hair can be an important allergen."
Find out more about the paediatric pneumology and allergy clinic at AKESO POLICLINICE.
