Climate change and long-term pollution of pollen and allergy symptoms
The arrival of spring is marked by the appearance of many diseases at this time of the year. In addition, climate change and pollution have made pollen seasons more intense and longer, increasing people’s health conditions and allergies and reducing their quality of life.
The rise in temperature has caused more pollen to be generated and as a result an increase in allergies and spring illnesses. Added to this factor is the lack of rain and droughts in the national environment, although they delay the flowering season, causing an accumulation of atmospheric pollution and pollen. In fact, the first months of 2023 have been one of the driest of this century. In this sense, higher levels of pollution in cities favor the retention and transmission of pollen in the air, increasing the exposure time. In fact, the SEAIC points out that air pollution can increase asthma symptoms by 30% in people allergic to pollen and grass. A pathology that affects more than 8 million people in Spain, according to the Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC).
Air pollution is the most dangerous environmental factor for health, along with bad eating habits and tobacco. Although the symptoms are more noticeable in outdoor environments, it is also necessary to pay attention to the air in closed spaces, such as homes or offices. In this sense, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge shows in its reports that the quality of the air has a direct impact on the health and well-being of people and that, for this reason, it is necessary to prevent the use of air filter systems. reduce the spread of existing airborne diseases.
With the arrival of spring, Cigna, as a health expert, offers five tips to deal with the most common spring diseases;
Protect yourself from the wave of pollen and allergies. Allergies are caused by direct contact with pollen or other allergenic particles in the air. They usually affect the respiratory tract, causing inflammation and causing diseases such as bronchitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, conjunctivitis, or asthma among others. Allergies can go away by avoiding contact with the allergen. Often, however, and if the symptoms remain, it is also necessary to take some medication such as an antihistamine. Going to a specialist is essential to be able to assess the symptoms and the need for treatment.
Getting your skin ready for spring: An increase in microorganisms, such as fungi, viruses and bacteria, due to good weather and humidity means an increase in skin diseases. To avoid infection, it is important to keep the skin clean, hydrated and protected, especially in the wound. In such a case of using common rooms or changing showers, preventive measures should be used such as the use of flip flops or disinfecting contact surfaces. In addition, sun protection is necessary to avoid burns.
The rising temperatures regulate the temperature with food stores: Although they are more common in the summer, the rise of spring heat also increases the cases of gastroenteritis, because of which it is easier for the multiplication of microorganisms in the food. Common symptoms include abdominal and stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, malaise, nausea, and vomiting. If the symptoms do not relieve or worsen, he can consult with a specialist about the need for pharmacological treatment. To avoid these infections, it is advisable to pay attention to hygiene in the kitchen and when handling food, disinfect all surfaces well and wash your hands frequently. If the food goes raw. It is important to wash your hands well
Don’t forget the virus key; Spring is a good time for the appearance of different viruses. Among them, rhinovirus infections of the so-called common cold, the symptoms of which are itching of the nose, head and throat, cough and pressure in the ears, are common. Chicken pox is common, which, while it appears mainly in children under 15 years of age, can also occur in adults if they have not previously suffered or been vaccinated, causing skin rashes, fever and general fatigue. On the other hand, although the cases of rivers are decreasing, as indicated in the most recent epidemiological report by the Charles III Institute of Health, it is still much higher than usual, especially B. Against the typical infection, Est. It is important to consider sudden temperature changes and contact with infected people. In addition, it is advisable to follow a healthy lifestyle, hydrate well and wrap up as necessary to avoid catching a cold, as well as taking care of spots and wounds on the skin, always avoiding scratching.
Resting well is the best partner you can have at this time: Due to the change in atmospheric pressure and temperature, headaches are more common in spring. Also, common allergy symptoms increase the appearance of headaches. In this sense, good rest and proper hydration help to relieve tension and pain.
