As the pollen count rises in South Africa, many of us are left wondering why our immune system treats pollen like a parasite. Seasonal allergies affect over 10% of the population, with some areas like the Western Cape being worse than others. According to the National Department of Health, seasonal allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen.
How Seasonal Allergies Affect the Body
The symptoms of seasonal allergies can range from mild to severe and include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. In some cases, seasonal allergies can trigger asthma attacks, which can be life-threatening. It’s essential to understand what happens in the body when we have a seasonal allergy.
Treatments and Preventions
While there is no cure for seasonal allergies, there are several treatments and preventions available. These include over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and immunotherapy. As noted on Wikipedia, immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that involves regular injections of small amounts of the allergen to build up tolerance.
Here are some tips to help manage seasonal allergies:
- Avoid outdoor activities when the pollen count is high
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering the home
- Use air purifiers to remove pollen and other allergens from the air
- Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
- Consider immunotherapy if symptoms are severe
By understanding what happens in the body when we have a seasonal allergy and taking steps to prevent and treat them, we can reduce the impact of seasonal allergies on our daily lives.
