As spring arrives in London, so does the pollen season, bringing runny noses, itchiness and streaming eyes to the population. Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, affects 1 in 5 people and can significantly impact daily life. Understanding how to manage hay fever during London's pollen season can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
The Urban Hay Fever Paradox
You might assume that urban areas with fewer trees and flowers would have lower pollen counts compared to the countryside. However, the reality is more complex. While urban areas like London do often have lower overall pollen levels, the pollution present in cities can exacerbate symptoms and make the hay fever feel worse in a city than it does in the countryside.
Pollution can prolong the pollen season and city people might experience more intense and longer-lasting hay fever symptoms.
London's Green Spaces: A Blessing and a Curse
London is renowned for its green spaces, tree-lined streets, and numerous parks. While these areas add to the beauty and charm of the city, they also contribute to pollen levels. The London Plane Tree, ubiquitous on London streets, is particularly notorious for triggering hay fever symptoms. These trees shed large amounts of pollen, affecting many Londoners during the spring and early summer months.
Effective Management of Hay Fever Symptoms
Antihistamines: The First Line of Defence
The most effective way to manage hay fever symptoms is with antihistamines. These medications work by blocking histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction that causes symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Antihistamines are available over the counter, but stronger doses can be prescribed by a doctor if needed.
While effective for many, antihistamines don't work for everyone and can have side effects. The most common side effect is drowsiness, which can be problematic for those who need to stay alert. Some people can tolerate antihistamines with minimal side effects, but for others, the drowsiness makes these drugs unusable.
Exploring Alternatives
If antihistamines aren't suitable or effective for you, it's important to speak with your doctor about alternatives. Different types of antihistamines are available, and some may be better suited to your needs. Additionally, combining antihistamines with nasal sprays and eye drops can provide more comprehensive relief from symptoms.
When Antihistamines Aren't Enough: Immunotherapy
For severe hay fever sufferers whose symptoms do not respond to antihistamines, immunotherapy may be an option. Immunotherapy involves gradually introducing the body to small amounts of the allergen (pollen) over time, with the goal of desensitising the immune system.
How Immunotherapy Works
Immunotherapy is proven to be clinically effective in reducing symptoms and the quantity of medication required for hay fever sufferers. It is the only disease-modifying treatment option that can both modify the IgE-mediated allergic response and induce long-term remission of the allergy.
Types of Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy for grass pollen is available in two forms: subcutaneous injections and sublingual tablets.
Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT): This method involves monthly injections of the allergen. While effective, SCIT carries a higher risk of severe adverse reactions, making it necessary to be administered in a clinical setting every time.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): SLIT involves taking a tablet daily. This method is convenient and has a lower risk of severe reactions compared to injections. SLIT tablets are taken once a day, all year round, for three years. The first tablet is taken under medical supervision and, provided all is well, the remaining course is taken at home. The benefits of SLIT can last for years, even after the medication has stopped.
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