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Those who suffer from controlled allergic rhinitis have to endure its symptoms for longer than they did in the 1990s, according to a recent study.
A report issued by 65 scientists around the world revealed that climate change has led to a lengthening of the “pollen season.”
The fine powder released by some grasses, trees and plants can cause irritation for those with allergies. They develop symptoms of itchy eyes, sneezing, and headaches.
So what does this mean for the millions of people who suffer from allergic rhinitis? Is there anything they can do to tolerate the allergy?
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The new report was published in the Lancet, a public health journal. He says climate change is lengthening the flowering season for some plants.
The study examined three types of trees known in Europe, which are trees, trees, and olives. The researchers found that vaccination between 2015 and 2024 began a week or two earlier than it did in the period between 1991 and 2000.
Professor Joachim Rockloff from the University of Heidelberg, a participant in the study, says: “We notice a longer season, as vaccination begins earlier in northern and southern Europe.”
He said in a statement to BBC Radio that what is needed is more research to find out whether climate change leads to an increase in the number of pollen grains spread and to a worsening of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Early summer is usually the peak pollen season, when these grains multiply in the air.
The warm weather that Britain has witnessed in the past two years has provided favorable conditions for tree pollen, which is one of the largest causes of allergic rhinitis.
Warm, dry climates help pollen spread in the air, forming what is called a “pollen bomb.” If the pollen season extends, this will have an impact on millions in Britain.
Anne Biggs, deputy director of therapeutic services at the Allergy Foundation in Britain, believes that “some people have mild symptoms, but the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are burdensome for many people’s lives.”
“This can lead to them missing work, or having disturbed sleep. Some teenagers and children can miss school exams due to allergic rhinitis.”
Pollen may trigger asthma or allergy attacks in people who suffer from other respiratory conditions.
“If people have a pollen allergy, this can lead to airway inflammation and difficult respiratory conditions, which in turn lead to a serious asthma attack,” said Dr Samantha Walker, director of research and innovation at Asthma and Lung UK.
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But, what is the best medicine for allergic rhinitis?
There is no cure for allergic rhinitis, but there are medications that can relieve symptoms and make you feel better.
Allergy expert Professor Stephen Teale from St Thomas’ Hospital in London recommends a combination of medications:
- Antihistamines, pills or drops, do not make you sleepy and are long-lasting
- Steroid nasal spray
- Eye drops
“They all work in different ways, and they all work for most people,” Professor Thiel says. These medications can be purchased from the pharmacy without the need for a doctor’s prescription. What can be done to reduce the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
Pharmacist Ashley Cohen from Leeds says avoiding allergic rhinitis triggers is also essential.
“I always say it’s about hygiene. Pollen gets on your face and arms when you leave the house. Take a shower, and change your clothes when you come back.” He warns that pets are a “major transmitter” of pollen into your home.
The Public Health Authority in Britain advises the following:
- Put nasal balm or Vaseline in the nostrils to trap pollen
- Wearing sunglasses, a mask or a wide hat prevents pollen from landing on your nose and eyes
- Sweep the house and remove dust regularly
- Try placing a filter in your car’s air vents
Try to avoid:
- Mowing the lawn or walking on the grass
- Placing fresh (newly grown) flowers at home
- Smoking or being near someone who smokes
- Drying clothes outdoors
What if allergic rhinitis worsens?
Pharmacist Ashley Cohen says that 90 percent of cases of allergic rhinitis can be treated with medications from the pharmacy, without a medical license.
But if allergic rhinitis debilitates you, your GP will refer you to a specialist, but this will take time.
For a small percentage of people, allergic rhinitis actually affects their lives, in terms of productivity and performance at work and school.
They receive immunotherapy. It consists of injecting a very small amount of pollen into the body at intervals so that it gets used to the substance, so as not to arouse its allergy.
