Reference; https://mbp-japan.com/jijico/articles/32352/
Modified and translated by CFJA
Is it okay to ignore pollen symptoms? Are there cases of influenza or COVID-19?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as pollen allergy or hay fever. As it is seasonal, symptoms typically occur during periods of high pollen levels. Pollen dispersion varies depending on the region and type, but late March is known for high levels of Birch and Oak pollen(in May) making it a challenging time for tree pollen sufferers.
*https://www.theweathernetwork.com/en/news/lifestyle/health/top-allergies-affecting-canadians
“According to Dr. Harold Kim, president of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, the top environmental allergies affecting Canadians are, “grass, tree and ragweed pollens, molds, dust mites, and cats and dogs.” Those who are allergic to tree pollen typically suffer the worst in the spring, grass sufferers get it worse in late spring and summer, and ragweed blooms later in the year, causing symptoms to hit hard in late summer to fall.”
Allergic rhinitis occurs when allergens enter the nose and trigger an immune response upon absorption into the body through the mucous membrane. The most common example of this is hay fever. Symptoms of hay fever primarily affect the nose and eyes. The main nasal symptoms are sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion, while the main ocular symptoms are itching, redness, and tearing. Prolonged exposure may lead to systemic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, feeling feverish, itching of the throat, face, and neck, coughing, decreased concentration, and irritability.
The mechanism of the inflammatory response triggered when pollen adheres to the nose has been largely elucidated, leading to the development of many inexpensive and effective medications. Many people manage their symptoms with medication. Since pollen allergy symptoms can resemble those of similar diseases such as influenza or COVID-19, individuals experiencing severe symptoms may benefit from consulting a specialist.
Is there a way to prevent pollen allergy?
According to Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, the cause of hay fever is pollen. In the Ministry’s “Hay Fever Environmental Health Manual 2022” (page 25), it suggests the following measures to prevent pollen exposure: “To alleviate symptoms and delay onset of hay fever, it is essential to have knowledge about pollen and know how to avoid it. Use pollen dispersal forecast information effectively. Pollen tends to disperse most in the late morning and evening. Choose clothing that is less likely to attract pollen when going out, use masks and glasses to prevent pollen exposure, and when returning home, make sure to remove pollen to avoid bringing it indoors. General precautions such as getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular lifestyle are important for maintaining normal immune function. Avoiding catching a cold, reducing alcohol consumption, and refraining from smoking are also important for maintaining normal nasal mucosa.” Pollen dispersal forecast information can be checked through organizations like the Japan Meteorological Agency (or equivalents like The Weather Network in Canada). People suffering from hay fever often use specialized masks and glasses and pay attention to their clothing.
As emphasized by the Ministry of the Environment, maintaining a regular daily routine is key to managing hay fever.
Based on our 40 years of clinical experience, common factors among people suffering from pollen allergy include lack of sleep and consumption of cold foods and beverages. As part of supportive therapy養生治療, we propose paying attention to the following points:
1. Get 7.5 to 8 hours of sleep per day.
2. Avoid consuming foods and beverages that have been refrigerated.
3. Refrain from consuming foods and beverages with cooling properties (such as barley (beer or barley tea) and Japanese spikenard).
4. Limit intake of raw fish and raw vegetables.
5. Perform nasal irrigation and facial cleansing three times a day.
Points 2, 3, and 4 can induce internal fatigue, so caution is necessary during this time. Being mindful of points 1 to 5 during February, March, and April can yield positive results. At our clinic, we advocate for nasal breathing and nasal irrigation.
Alcohol consumption and overeating can exacerbate hay fever symptoms, so caution is advised.