Pollen Allergy

An estimated 20% of individuals in Finland suffer from pollen allergy. The symptoms often begin in childhood or adolescence. The most common allergy-triggering pollens come from trees, such as birch, as well as various grasses. Typical symptoms include a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes asthma-related symptoms. These symptoms usually improve with allergy medication, and inhalable medications may be needed for asthma symptoms.

Contents:

• Symptoms of Pollen Allergy
• Causes of Pollen Allergy
• Treatment and Self-care
• When to seek medical care?
• How Can Dokport Help?

Symptoms of Pollen Allergy

Pollen allergy causes symptoms similar to a cold, such as itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Other common symptoms include nasal congestion, headaches, and fatigue. Sometimes, there may also be throat irritation or itching. High fever and thick nasal discharge are not typical for allergies and are usually related to infections. Some individuals may experience worsening asthma symptoms during pollen season, and some may develop seasonal allergic asthma even if they are symptom-free at other times.

Common symptoms of pollen allergy include:

• Itchy, watery, and swollen eyes
• Sneezing, runny nose, and congestion
• Throat itchiness and swelling
• Cough
• Headache
• Fatigue

Causes of Pollen Allergy

Pollen allergy results from the immune system’s exaggerated sensitivity to certain environmental substances that it would normally tolerate. Pollen allergies are often associated with asthma and atopic dermatitis. In Finland, pollen season begins in early spring in the south and progresses northward. The intensity of pollen season varies with weather conditions; rainy days can help alleviate symptoms by reducing the amount of pollen in the air.

Treatment and Self-care

Antihistamines help relieve symptoms, and additional relief can be provided by nasal sprays and eye drops. In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe more effective medications for allergies. For extremely severe pollen allergies, allergy immunotherapy may be considered.

Self-care tips:

• Avoid outdoor activities and exercise during high pollen counts.
• Keep windows and doors closed during the day.
• Ventilate your home at night or early in the morning.
• Store outdoor clothing separately from living spaces.
• Change outdoor clothes and shower before going to bed.

When to seek medical care?

If self-care instructions do not provide adequate relief, it is recommended to consult a doctor for more effective treatment options. Immediate medical attention is needed if allergy symptoms include breathing difficulties, general health deterioration, or sudden swelling of the face or throat.

How Can Dokport Help?

Dokport's online medical clinic offers quick and convenient support for managing allergy symptoms. Our doctors can assess your symptoms through a chat, provide home care instructions, and prescribe medication if necessary. If further evaluation is needed, we may suggest an in-person visit to a doctor or healthcare provider.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine