How can I protect myself from pollen allergies?
April 25, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Petra Netz
Dear Doctor,
My name is Tatiana Schwaru and I have been suffering from severe pollen allergies for some time now. Especially during the spring and summer seasons, I struggle with symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and breathing problems. These complaints affect my daily life and make it difficult for me to be outdoors. I constantly feel tired and exhausted, which also affects my work and social life.
I have already undergone various allergy tests and know which pollens I am allergic to. I have also tried different medications, but they only provide limited relief for my symptoms. I am worried that my allergies will worsen in the future and that I will experience even stronger symptoms.
Therefore, I would like to know how I can effectively protect myself from pollen allergies. Are there specific behaviors that I should follow? Are there specific measures I can take to reduce my symptoms? Are alternative treatment methods such as homeopathy or acupuncture recommended? What role does my diet play in treating my allergies?
I would greatly appreciate your advice and recommendations for better managing my pollen allergies and improving my quality of life.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Tatiana Schwaru
Dear Mrs. Schwaru,
Thank you for your detailed description of your pollen allergy symptoms and your experiences with different treatment options. It is understandable that these symptoms greatly affect your daily life and well-being, and that you are looking for effective solutions to improve your quality of life.
To effectively protect yourself from pollen allergies, there are various behaviors and measures you can take. Here are some tips that may help reduce your symptoms:
1. Avoid contact with pollen: Try to stay indoors in the morning and evening when pollen levels are highest. Keep windows and doors closed to minimize the entry of pollen into your living spaces.
2. Pollen filters: Use air purifiers with pollen filters in your home to clean the air of allergy-triggering particles.
3. Pollen forecast: Stay informed about the pollen forecast and plan your outdoor activities accordingly. On days with high pollen levels, it is best to stay indoors.
4. Low-allergen gardening: If you enjoy gardening, wear a pollen mask and gloves to minimize contact with pollen.
5. Personal hygiene: After being outdoors, shower and change your clothes to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
Regarding alternative treatment methods such as homeopathy or acupuncture, the effectiveness in treating pollen allergies is controversial. Some patients report positive experiences, while others do not benefit from them. It is advisable to use these methods under medical supervision and not to consider them as a replacement for conventional medical treatments.
As for your diet, it can actually play a role in treating your allergies. Some foods can exacerbate allergic reactions, while others have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate your symptoms. It may be helpful to consult a nutritionist to plan a low-allergen diet that supports your pollen allergies.
Please discuss these recommendations with your doctor to develop an individualized treatment strategy that suits you. I hope this information helps you better control your pollen allergies and improve your quality of life.
Sincerely,
Petra Netz
