People with allergies react abnormally to environmental stimuli, food, medicines and insect bites, among other things. Immunological changes are caused by specific proteins known as allergens. Family history can also influence immunological deviations. What are the most common allergies to pollen? During the spring, the allergies most frequently triggered by pollen are: Rhinitis (also known as hay fever); Conjunctivitis; Bronchial asthma; Atopic eczema. Allergy to pollen: preventive measures In order to put preventive measures into place, it is necessary first of all to know which pollens are causing the allergy. However, there is some general advice that can be followed by all people with allergies: Avoid being outdoors at the time when the pollen count is at its highest; Avoid going through areas where there are lawns and a lot of trees; Change your clothes when you get home; Take a bath and wash your hair before going to bed; Keep windows and doors closed at home during the day; Travel with the car windows closed; Use air conditioning with pollen filters; Wear sunglasses; Don't cut the lawn. Pollen allergies are seasonal and weather dependent . We recommend regularly checking the pollen report at the Portuguese Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology , which provides a weekly summary on the pollen count in each region. How does the allergy come about? The immunological changes are triggered by specific proteins known as allergens . Allergens lead to the appearance of symptoms in specific organs, often simultaneously. In the case of allergy to pollen, it is mainly the respiratory apparatus (upper and lower) and the eyes and skin that are most affected. The quality of life of patients with allergies often depends on how diagnosis and prevention is carried out. This can be done through education and information, but also through the implementation of appropriate therapy in each case. How are allergies diagnosed and treated? There are several tests that can be used to diagnose an allergy. Treatment of the condition may include several types of drugs. Diagnosis The diagnosis of allergies may include: Skin allergy tests; Laboratory tests; Respiratory function study (in the case of asthma). In the pre-seasonal period, allergy sufferers should consult their family doctor and, if necessary, an allergist/immunologist (allergy and immunology specialist). Treatment Preventive treatment can be used during the pollen season. This usually involves drugs such as: Anti-histamines; Anti-asthmatics; Corticoids; Other local treatments for specific organs (such as nose, eyes or skin). Immunotherapy (desensitisation) vaccines can be of fundamental importance for long-term prevention (3 to 5 years). Each treatment is specific, but there are generic therapies that can be recommended by specialists in each area. Characteristics of pollen Most pollen cells are microscopic in size , measuring between 8 and 10 micrometres (8 to 10 thousandths of a millimetre). Anything above this size would not be able to enter the bronchial tree. Pollen is often carried by the wind and taken to places many miles away. The protein component that triggers allergic reactions is inside the pollen grains . The grains are released when they come into contact with the nasal, eye, bronchial or skin mucosae. The most common pollen in Portugal is that of grasses (which are mainly found in lawns and wastelands). Sometimes it can be found in greater volumes, such as when it is released from trees or flowers, although the vast majority of pollen is not visible. The pollen count is higher on sunny and/or hot, windy days, both in spring and summer. Statistical data It is estimated that in Europe around 40% of the population have allergies , while in Portugal around 30% of the population suffers with allergic rhinitis. Between 6 and 10% suffer with conjunctivitis and atopic eczema, and another 10% have already had at least one episode of asthma. Portugal is one of the countries of Europe where the medical speciality of immuno-allergology is recognised after five years of professional training . We can guarantee best clinical practice in the support of allergic patients of any age, as well as in the training of health professionals dedicated to this area. In the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, you can find doctors specialising in allergic diseases and who can carry out the examinations you need. Author : José Rosado Pinto Meet the Immunoallergology team of Hospital da Luz network The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
