august and september are pollinate treesOctober, November and December, pasture Finally in December, January, February, weeds.
But the current situation with hay fever and seasonal allergies has changed. Climate change is causing increased pollen counts in the air and lengthening seasons.
“This gives the impression that the allergies have worsened. In addition, they start 20 days earlier than we are usually used to and last longer,” said Dr. María de los Ángeles Contreras, an immunologist at the Santa Maria Clinic, in a statement. said in.
According to Dr. Ramón Readi, otolaryngologist at Clínica Dávila and Dávila Vespucio, cases of respiratory allergies are gradually increasing. “One of the theories has to do with global warming, which leads to higher temperatures and a drier environment that increases the chances of allergens floating around in the environment.”
Furthermore, he added that monoculture landscapes exist in Chile (as in the case of Banana Oriental), Tends to produce higher allergy symptoms in the population.
The most common allergic diseases in the country
Immunologist Dr. Macarena Sobarzo of the Clínica Ciudad del Mar explains that the most common ailments among Chileans are respiratory allergies, such as rhinitis and asthmaboth are seasonal.
“The most common allergens are dust mites, tree pollens such as oriental bananas, weeds and grasses,” he added.
Likewise, Dr. Jorge Yáñez, bronchopulmonary specialist at Clínica Biobío, details that from a respiratory point of view there is congestion, sneezing and itching in the nose. Also, if a condition such as asthma is present, more symptoms may occur if the upper airway (in this case, the nose) is not adequately controlled.
In general, this type of spring-summer allergy occurs in 20% to 25% of the world’s population.
spring is coming
Certain age groups, such as children, adolescents and young adults, are usually more affected, said Dr. Tamara Pérez, an immunologist at Clínica Biobío. However, it also clarifies that they can appear at any age.
“There is always a genetic predisposition to respiratory allergies. If one parent has the disease, it is much more likely to be inherited, about 50% if only one parent has it, and about 50% if both have it. For this disease, the heritability rate is about 80%.” Dr. Readi introduced in detail.
“On the other hand, those who engage in work, sports or recreational activities outdoors are more susceptible to pollen,” the expert said.
While you can’t avoid exposure to these allergens, immunologists at Santa Maria Clinic offer some guidelines to reduce symptoms:
- Keep your house and car windows closed during the times of greatest exposure, usually in the morning and afternoon.
- Change clothes when you get home and take a shower before going to bed.
- Wear sunglasses or glasses to avoid symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
- Avoid hanging clothes outside to prevent pollen from adhering to fabrics.
- Use N95 masks. During a pandemic, studies have shown this helps filter pollen.
It is necessary to consult a specialist early to start treatment in a timely manner.In addition, experts can determine whether Patient is a candidate for immunotherapyIt is one of the most advanced and effective measures in recent years
What is immunotherapy?
Allergen immunotherapy is a vaccine treatment that focuses on reducing symptoms in patients diagnosed with rhinitis, allergic asthma, or insect sting allergy. It can be given by injection or orally and can alter a patient’s response, boosting their immune system. Immunologist Dr. Macarena Sobarzo of the Clínica Ciudad del Mar assures that this is an effective procedure that helps to achieve long-term tolerance to allergens.