It may be that you are allergic to pollen and have not realized it. It is one of the most common allergies that we can face, especially among people who already suffer from others. Let’s talk all the details about a pollen allergy: what it is, why it happens, how it manifests itself and more.
What is pollen?
Pollen is one of the most important parts of flowers. Its main function is to distribute itself in the air for germination and subsequent fertilization. In doing so, he helps the propagation of his species. Once the ovule inside the flower is fertilized, it gives rise to the seeds of the fruit that generates a new plant.
What is a pollen allergy?
Pollinosis or pollen allergy is a disease resulting from an allergic reaction to the different types of pollen present in the atmosphere. These penetrate the body through the mucous membranes exposed to the air and produce respiratory processes such as rhinitis and asthma.
The problem arises when some people have an exaggerated reaction to pollen in the air, which is not harmful and should not harm humans in their pollination process.
What symptoms or reactions does it produce?
NOSE
It produces inflammation, characterized by sneezing, itching, congestion, discharge and nasal obstruction.
EYES: CONJUNCTIVITIS.
Itchy ears, palate and/or throat.
In 40% of cases, allergies to pollen also cause asthma, so it can affect the lungs and produce:
COUGH
Difficulty breathing
chest tightness
wheezing in the chest
THE TIME
It is in the spring and summer seasons when pollen allergies usually occur.
It is at this time when the plants bloom and there is a greater amount of pollen in the environment. Likewise, the weather usually influences the symptoms of pollinosis.
SEASON
Each plant species has an estimated flowering window at a specific time of year. However, there are some pollen calendars that can help us to have an approximate prediction. That way, if you are allergic to pollen you can take your precautions.
Pollen grains, which are microscopic plant particles, are the allergens that produce the most allergic symptoms.
There are three types of allergenic pollen: grass, tree and weed.
In general, the trees pollinate from February to April; the grasses, in May and June; and weeds, from April or May to September, reports the University of Navarra Clinic
