What’s pollen like in April? cross-reactions

Birch pollen that triggers allergic reactions is the most problematic in April. Accordingly, symptoms may get worse after exposure to allergens that superficially seem unrelated to one another but actually contain proteins with a similar structure. Therefore, individuals with birch allergies may experience allergy symptoms during this time after eating certain foods, such as apples, celery, peaches, potatoes, or corn, as well as after coming into contact with alder, hazel, or oak pollen.

Symptoms of cross-allergies include:

• itching of the mouth and palate,
• mouth burning,
• itching of the tongue, nose, ears,
• hives  with or without swelling.

How to deal with an allergy?

First of all, if you have a pollen allergy, you should not undervalue the signs. Allergies left untreated can exacerbate symptoms and even cause asthma. Therefore, you should see an allergist if you experience symptoms. Here are some crucial pointers:

• Avoid places with the highest concentration of pollen , e.g. around trees to which you are allergic.
• Use seawater or saline based nasal sprays .
• Go for walks after rain or in the evening (pollen concentration in the air is then lower). But beware: in cities, pollen counts rise in the evening.
• Wear glasses, a mask, a cap or a hat during peak pollen seasons to limit the access of pollen to your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Take medications prescribed by your doctor . Most often, these are  antihistamines that block H1 receptors and the action of histamine – a hormone that causes allergy symptoms such as runny nose, urticaria, conjunctivitis, angioedema. The doctor may also prescribe  glucocorticoids , e.g. intranasal. However, the full effects of treatment with a nasal steroid appear only after 1-2 weeks.
• Consider desensitization ( allergen immunotherapy ) – it consists in administering small doses of the allergen to the patient, thanks to which the body’s hypersensitivity to the allergenic compound is reduced, and the symptoms are not as severe. 
• Watch out for products that cross-react  with pollen. 
• Quit smoking  and avoid smoky places.
• Close windows at home or hang curtains  during pollen season.
• Mow the lawn regularly , thanks to which you will inhibit the development of inflorescences and reduce dusting.

“Co Pyli W Kwietniu? Alergię Odczują Uczelni Na Brzozę I Nie Tylko – Polki.pl.” Polki.pl, 26 Mar. 2023, stylzycia.polki.pl/choroby,co-pyli-w-kwietniu-jak-sobie-radzic-z-katarem-siennym,10450169,artykul.html.