Soothing Pollen Allergy Symptoms, Naturally!

The arrival of spring brings milder temperatures and a renewal of nature. It also marks the beginning of allergy season, particularly those caused by pollen. Indeed, spring is when a majority of plants release pollen to reproduce.

According to projections by the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, half of the world’s population will have experienced at least one allergic disorder. This is not solely due to the increasingly high concentration of pollens but also to the various ways certain polluting chemicals interact with these pollens. Pollutants damage the pollen’s cell wall, causing the initially large pollen grains to fragment into particles less than one micron in size. These particles can penetrate deeper into the lungs, posing an increased risk to people with respiratory problems.[i]

Does climate change worsen pollen allergies?

According to numerous studies, climate change not only lengthens the pollen season but also significantly increases CO2 concentrations in the air, which in turn boosts pollen production. In fact, the amount of pollen produced during the flowering season could increase by 40% by the year 2100.[ii]

In recent decades, pollen allergies have become a major public health concern. They can seriously compromise both physical and mental quality of life due to highly bothersome symptoms. These allergies limit the ability to perform certain daily activities, reduce productivity and concentration, and can even lead to sleep problems and irritability.[iii] Indeed, according to a survey of over 1,600 people in Quebec, 53% of them suffer from severe symptoms that disrupt their daily lives.[iv]

Understanding Pollen Allergies

Pollen allergy is an excessive immune system reaction to a seemingly harmless substance called an allergen. Pollens from certain plant species (trees, grasses, and weeds), present in our environment and in the air, trigger allergic reactions that often manifest as uncomfortable respiratory and ocular symptoms.[v]

a)     What are the most common symptoms?

Pollen can cause a variety of respiratory and ocular symptoms that can be uncomfortable, such as nasal irritation and discharge, repeated sneezing, red, swollen, watery, itchy eyes, sinus congestion, and respiratory problems.

b)     How to minimize symptoms? [vi]

Here are some tips to better cope with allergies during pollen seasons:

Indoors:

–       Keep windows of the house and car closed on windy and hot days.

–       If you have an air conditioner or air exchanger, consider installing a pollen filter.

–       Air out rooms preferably before sunrise and sunset.

–       Change clothes after showering and make sure to wash (or rinse) hair as pollen can cling to them.

Outdoors:

–       Avoid drying sheets and clothes outside on the clothesline.

–       Avoid activities that spread pollen such as mowing the lawn or gardening.

Discover Boiron’s three homeopathic solutions for relieving seasonal allergy symptoms:

RhinAllergy*: RhinAllergy is indicated for the relief of symptoms caused by seasonal allergies (hay fever, pollen) and environmental allergens (dust, molds, animal hair) such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and scratchy throat. RhinAllergy is non-drowsy and is suitable for adults and children from 2 years old.

Optique1*: eye drops that relieve minor eye irritations such as dryness, burning sensation, redness, or itching due to allergies or pollution. Suitable for adults and children from the age of one, Optique1 is offered in single-use sterile unit doses.

Sinusalia*: used for relieving congestion and pain associated with sinus inflammation, Sinusalia is suitable for adults and children from 4 years old. Available in easy-to-take, water-free quick-dissolving tablets, its formula is free of colorants or preservatives. Non-drowsy, Sinusalia can be taken during the day or night.

*Note: These homeopathic medicines may not be suitable for everyone. Always read the label and follow the instructions.