Basics of hay fever prevention! Reduce symptoms with the right knowledge
This book explains the mechanisms of hay fever and the basics of effective countermeasures. Correct understanding is the first step to reducing symptoms.
What is hay fever? Its mechanism
Hay fever is an allergic rhinitis caused by pollen from plants such as cedar and cypress. When pollen comes into contact with the mucous membranes of the nose or eyes, the body recognizes it as a foreign substance and produces a substance called IgE antibodies. When the same pollen enters the body again, the IgE antibodies stimulate mast cells, causing the release of inflammatory substances such as histamine. These inflammatory substances cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.
Hay fever symptoms
The main symptoms of hay fever are sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, itchy nose, etc. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, and in mild cases, the nose may feel a little itchy, but in severe cases, the symptoms can be so painful that they interfere with daily life.
Measures to consider according to symptoms
It is important to choose a remedy that suits your symptoms. For example, eye drops are effective for severe itchy eyes, and nasal drops are effective for a stuffy nose.
Effective measures against hay fever
Pollen allergy prevention measures can be broadly divided into three stages: prevention, treatment, and mitigation.
1. Prevention: Avoid pollen
The most important thing to do to prevent hay fever is to avoid pollen from entering your body. Specific measures include the following:
- Avoid going outside during times when pollen is most prevalent (morning to afternoon)
- Wear a mask when going out
- When you get home, remove pollen from your clothes.
- Drying laundry indoors
- Wash your hands and gargle frequently
- Check the pollen forecast
2. Treatment: Medication
If symptoms appear, medication is effective. There are various types available, such as antihistamines, nasal drops, and eye drops, so consult a doctor to select the appropriate medication.
3. Mitigation: Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce symptoms.
- Get enough sleep
- Eat a balanced diet
- Get some moderate exercise
- Don't accumulate stress
Summary of measures to prevent hay fever
It is important to take effective measures against hay fever based on the three pillars of prevention, treatment, and alleviation. By taking appropriate measures, you can reduce symptoms and live a comfortable life every day. If your symptoms are severe, consult a doctor as soon as possible.