Allergies are the reaction of our Immune System to certain substances: allergens.
These substances, generally harmless, are erroneously perceived as a threat by our body, which develops an immune response and produces antibodies such as immunoglobulin E (IgE).
SYMPTOMS OF POLLEN ALLERGIES
The period of pollen allergies is around the corner. For this reason, it is good to clarify which are the most effective prevention methods and which medicines to take in case of allergic reactions due to pollen.
Starting from the symptoms, we must immediately specify that they vary from person to person but they generally involve some specific Systems: Respiratory System, Gastrointestinal System and Skin:
rhinitis, which occurs with itching, nasal obstruction, sneezing, mucus from the nose;
asthma, which includes a dry, violent cough and difficulty breathing;
conjunctivitis, which consists in itching and lacerations;
skin problems, such as itching, erythema, urticaria, angioedema, eczema;
swelling of the glottis (oedema);
anaphylactic shock, which occurs with hypotension, malaise, loss of consciousness.
Symptoms occur within minutes or 1-2 hours after the contact with the allergen, in case of IgE-allergies. In the case contact-allergies, the reaction is delayed instead.
POLLEN ALLERGIES TREATMENTS
In general, it must be emphasized that there is no resolutive method to cure allergies, let alone the pollen ones. Before proceeding, however, we would like to highlight the importance of contacting your doctor. Only after their consultation, you will be able to choose the most suitable treatment according to your needs.
Certainly, the most effective method would be to avoid contact with the allergen but this is practically impossible in the case of pollen allergies. Antiallergics can be used because they alleviate symptoms and they are well-tolerated.
TO KEEP IN MIND
The use of FFP2 masks helps to contrast pollen by blocking its access to the respiratory tract. As we unfortunately know, the society has got used to seeing people with FFP2 masks; therefore you can try the preventive use of them to mechanically block contact with pollen.
Symptomatic treatments – which are taken in case of symptoms onset but not to prevent their occurrence – are:
antihistamines, which are suitable for treating oculorhinitis and urticaria; modern antihistamines usually do not cause drowsiness;
cortisone treatments, with local action and without particular side effects; they are used to treat asthma (by inhalation) and rhinitis (with nasal spray);
cortisone, which is administered orally (under the physician’s supervision) when local therapies are not effective;
cortisone-based creams, which are suitable for atopic dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis; however, it is recommended to apply them only for short periods of time, in order to avoid any side effects;
adrenaline, which is a therapy provided only in case of anaphylactic shock; self-administration is prescribed by the doctor if severe allergic reactions have previously occurred.
Since it is not possible to avoid contact with the pollen allergen, the most effective way for prevention is vaccination.
First of all, the vaccine allows to reduce the allergen reactivity of the organism, proceeding with daily oral intake at home, two months before pollination and throughout the whole period. Once the therapy is over – which usually lasts 3 years –benefits persist.
The Respiratory System, in fact, suffers from fatigue and it usually returns to a state of complete health when the pollen season ends. But what about outdoors physical activities? Moreover, are there any therapies or spa treatments that can reduce the inflammatory response not only temporarily but also in the long term?
At Palazzo Fiuggi, you can take care of your well-being and your body thanks to a team of experts: the medical & diagnostic program allows you, for example, to carry out specific medical treatments and analyses.
Take care of your health. Visit the Palazzo Fiuggi website and learn about the method for a longer life.