Seasonal allergies. How to survive an unfavorable period? Seasonal allergies: treatment Against seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies are a protective reaction of the immune system to certain environmental irritants that occurs during the warm season. This disease has another well-known name - hay fever, which comes from the Latin word with the root pollen, and this is not accidental, since the cause of intolerance to seasonal allergies is various parts of plants and their components released during their growth or flowering. ICD 10 code J30.2.

Seasonal allergies are most often expressed in the form of rhinitis and conjunctivitis; in some patients, skin manifestations of the disease are recorded; in severe cases, bronchial asthma is formed.

The disease was first described by the English physician John Bostock in 1819. It received an official name - seasonal fever. At first it was assumed that the symptoms characteristic of a cold were caused by hay, but as it turned out later, plant pollen caused sneezing and nasal congestion. But this was proven only 54 years later in 1873, also by a doctor from Great Britain, David Blackley.

In Russia, people first started talking about seasonal allergies in 1889. This happened in St. Petersburg at a meeting of the society of Russian doctors. Dr. Silich L. gave a report on this topic. At the same time, he was the first to draw attention to the relationship between allergies and the human nervous system.

In the late 50s and early 60s, wheat and other grain crops from the USA began to be imported en masse to the USSR. Together with them, ambrosia was first brought to the territory of Russia, and then to other republics.

Pollen from this particular plant caused massive allergy attacks in the Krasnodar region in 1960.

Nowadays, there are more and more people suffering from seasonal hay fever every year. According to official data, 20% of the world's population suffers from this disease. But according to unofficial data, there are much more of them.

And despite the fact that modern medicine has achieved certain successes in the fight against eliminating the symptoms of seasonal allergies, this pathology has not yet been completely overcome.

Causes of hay fever

The main reason for the development of an atypical reaction in the body is pollen components; about 50 subspecies of trees, grasses, shrubs and flowers have been identified, widespread everywhere and capable of causing hay fever.

Flowering of plants begins in mid-spring and ends at the end of August. A list of them is presented later in the article.

Therefore, the likelihood of seasonal allergies occurring during this period is very high. In some patients suffering from hay fever, the disease also develops on rare plants, including indoor plants, which can bloom several times a year.

Due to the high prevalence and severity of seasonal allergies, numerous studies have been carried out; during their conduct, it was possible to find out that the pathology most often develops in people with genetic heredity. In these cases, hay fever can occur in the first years of the baby’s life.

It also happens that the disease first begins to appear in adulthood, and a specific reaction of the immune system can be caused by the following provoking factors:

• Changes in the body's defense reactions under the influence of other allergic diseases. Hay fever can occur in people who have suffered for a number of years from intolerance to a certain type of food, medicine, cosmetics, or household chemicals.
• Deterioration of the environmental situation.
• Chronic diseases of the broncho-pulmonary system.
• Production factors.
• Significant weakening of the immune system after suffering infectious and inflammatory diseases, due to poor nutrition, disorders in the nervous system.

When does it most often appear?

Symptoms of seasonal allergies are most pronounced in spring and autumn, and are less severe in mid-summer. In the spring, the disease develops during the flowering of birch, maple, hazel, sycamore, and alder trees.

In summer, allergies intensify with intolerance to cereals, wildflowers and garden flowers. At the end of summer and beginning of autumn, wormwood and quinoa begin to bloom profusely and produce seeds.

At the same time, you need to understand that the pollen of some plants, for example, ragweed, can be carried very far in a strong wind, so if it does not grow in your region, this does not mean that you will not sneeze.

Flowering plants per year by month:

1. Spring – maple, birch, willow, hazel, poplar (May), oak, acacia, alder, hazel, wildflowers (May);
2. Summer - rye, sorrel, fescue, pine needles, other cereals.
3. August, early autumn – ragweed, quinoa, wormwood.

Influence of weather conditions

Weather conditions have a significant impact on the well-being of patients with hay fever. In rainy weather, pollen remains on the ground and overall health improves. On windy and hot days, pollen components are carried through the air, easily enter rooms and provoke the occurrence of rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

The pollen of some plants has minimal weight and can be carried by the wind for tens of kilometers, which explains the development of hay fever in response to a certain irritant, even if it does not grow in the patient’s area of ​​residence.

Seasonal allergies develop not only to pollen, but also to fungal spores, which are also quite easily carried by the wind. Fungi also include mold that forms in damp areas.

Mold hay fever can occur year-round, since in residential buildings it multiplies and grows regardless of the season.

Symptoms of hay fever

Seasonal allergies manifest themselves in different forms - it can be a slight deterioration in health or a rapidly developing picture of the disease with all the ensuing symptoms.

It is always necessary to treat any hay fever, since mild forms of the disease quickly turn into severe ones; only timely therapy with specially selected groups of drugs can prevent this process.

Seasonal allergies manifest themselves in the form of damage to the respiratory organs, eyes and skin:

• occurs when pollen enters the nasopharyngeal mucosa. Sneezing, itching in the nasal passages, congestion, and the release of copious mucous secretions appear. Without the use of antihistamines, this condition can occur throughout the entire warm season, with periods of subsidence and exacerbation of the process.
• Conjunctivitis is manifested by redness and lacrimation, itching, and a sensation of a foreign body in the eyes.
• Rashes on the skin can be either small pinpoints or large blisters. The rash itches, which leads to irritation.

The most severe manifestations of hay fever include bronchial asthma, a disease manifested by attacks of shortness of breath. The general well-being of patients also suffers - insomnia, irritation, and decreased performance.

Sometimes seasonal allergies, along with characteristic symptoms, can manifest as an increase in temperature, which makes diagnosing the disease difficult.

Fever usually subsides once the acute symptoms of the disease subside.

Temperature for seasonal allergies

Let's take a closer look at temperature for seasonal allergies. It can either be completely absent or increase.

A slight increase in temperature during hay fever to 37.5 degrees indicates that the immune system is trying to fight the allergen. As a rule, this temperature does not change.

Here it is important not to panic, but to figure out whether the temperature is provoked by ARVI or another disease. If not, then it will be enough to take an antihistamine and in 1-2 hours everything will return to normal.

Diagnosis of hay fever

It is not difficult for an experienced allergist to diagnose seasonal allergies. The patient is examined and interviewed, other ailments are excluded. To confirm the disease and to accurately determine the allergen, special skin tests are performed.

The doctor can suggest testing only in those months when there is no influence of the suspected allergen, that is, in late autumn or winter.

For a more accurate diagnosis and identification of the causes of allergies, additional medications may be prescribed.

Treatment of seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies should be treated both during the period of exacerbation and in other seasons to prevent relapse. During an exacerbation, antihistamines are used in the form of tablets, drops, sprays, ointments.

Groups and lists of drugs

To treat seasonal allergies, medications from one of three groups may be prescribed:

1. Antihistamines are divided into drugs of 1, 2, 3 (4) generations. Available in the form of tablets, drops, sprays, syrups. They block the release of histamine in the body - a reaction to an allergen irritant, which is manifested by the symptoms described above.
2. Corticosteroids are hormonal agents. Available in the form of ointments, sprays, drops. They are very effective, but are prescribed in severe cases when conventional medications are unable to suppress the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Children, pregnant and lactating mothers are prescribed very rarely in particularly severe cases (, Quincke's edema) as they have many side effects.
3. Stabilizers - histamine, which causes unpleasant symptoms, is produced as a result of the destruction of cell membranes. Drugs from this group strengthen cell membranes and prevent the release of histamine.

List of effective antihistamines that quickly relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies:

1. Suprastin;
2. Tavegil;
3. Diazolin;
4. Loratadine;
5. Zodak;
6. Fenistil;
7. Pipolfen;
8. Diphenhydramine;
9. Xymelin (spray);
10. Fenistil;
11. Blogger 3;
12. Ezlor;
13. Cetrin;
14. Astemizole (Gismanal);
15. Terfenadine;
16. Aqua Maris Sense (for rinsing).

Despite their good effectiveness, some of them cause drowsiness (especially the first five points), so they are best taken before bed.

If the symptoms of seasonal allergies manifest themselves as bronchial asthma, then they can be relieved with the help of Salbutamol, Farmoterol, Budesonite.

List of cell membrane stabilizers, available in the form of drops and tablets:

1. Ifiral;
2. Intal;
3. Cromolyn;
4. Ketotifen;
5. Tailed.

New generation antihistamines

Drops and sprays

Since the symptoms of seasonal allergies are often manifested by rhinorrhea, swelling of the nasal mucosa, and redness of the eyes, doctors attach special importance to drops and sprays in its treatment.

We have prepared two materials on this topic in detail:

1. List of nasal drops for allergies, instructions for use.
2. List of sprays.
3. List of eye drops for allergies. For example, Azelastine has good effectiveness.

1. Vasoconstrictors - Navtizin, Noxprey, Nazivin, Nazospray, Galazolin, Tizin Xylo, Otrivin and others.
2. Antihistamines - Allergodil, Levocabastine, Fenistil, Kromhexal, Levocabastine, Sanorin (Analergin), Vibrocil.
3. Immunomodulatory – IRS 19, Derinat.

It is important to understand that it is not recommended to take vasoconstrictor nasal drops for more than 5-7 days, as they become addictive and burn out the nasal mucosa, which is then difficult to restore.

List of eye drops for seasonal allergies:

1. Vasoconstrictors - Okumetil, Visin, Octilia, Polinadim, Visomitin, Tsipromed, Tobrex, Alomid.
2. Antihistamines - Azelastine, Lecrolin, Opatanol, Montevisin, Allergodil, Ketotifen, Cromohexal, Dexamethasone, Kromofarm.

Hormonal drugs

If there is no expected effect from the therapy, drugs with glucocorticosteroids are prescribed - hormones effectively relieve swelling, inflammation and itching.

List of hormonal drops prescribed for seasonal allergies:

1. Prevalin;
2. Forinex;
3. Flix;
4. Baconase;
5. Ethacid;
6. Nasonex;
7. Metaspray;
8. Nazophan;
9. Glenspray S.

The peculiarity of these hormonal sprays is that they act only on the nasal area, and not on the entire body. The therapeutic effect occurs on the 3-4th day of administration.

They can be used for a long time, almost the entire flowering period of the allergen plant. But in any case, such drugs should be prescribed by a doctor. And before you drip them, you need to carefully study the instructions for use. This is especially true for age restrictions, side effects and contraindications.

Ointments and creams

For seasonal allergies, ointments and creams are used if the symptoms of the pathology manifest themselves in the form of itchy skin and urticaria. They are simple and hormonal.

TOP most effective means

Many people are looking for the most effective remedies that will help them quickly get rid of seasonal allergies. This is the wrong approach. All modern drugs listed above and found in the links, especially the new generation, do their job well. But the point is:

1. First, they may not suit everyone. Therefore, you need to try taking one drug, if it does not help, change to another, and it is important to look at the active substance.
2. Secondly, there is an addiction to a certain drug, and specifically to its active substance. Those. if you were saved for one year, the active ingredient is Loratadine. Then next year it may not help and you will have to switch to (active ingredient Levocetirizine) or another drug.

Of course, hormonal drugs are considered the most effective, especially injections, drops in the nose and eyes, but they must be taken as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor.

Treatment experience of one of our readers

One of our readers shared his experience of treating seasonal allergies. We will skip preventive measures, we will talk about this below, and will dwell in detail on the course of treatment.

In the first few years, salvation from seasonal hay fever was found in. But since this hormonal drug is addictive, at one point the drug only lasted for a week instead of two months. Just during the period of exacerbation it became a disaster. Since regular antihistamines did not help, I had to go to the doctor again.

The manifestation of symptoms did not extend to the eyes and skin, so the following treatment was prescribed:

1. Avamis spray (an analogue is possible, see above) – in the morning, spray a spray into each nostril.
2. In the evening, Cetrin tablet.

After two days the symptoms began to subside and disappeared on the fifth day. The treatment lasted a month and a half until the ragweed stopped blooming.

If Cetrin is not suitable, the treatment can be adjusted and a medicine with a different active ingredient can be selected.

Preventive treatment prescribed a month before a possible exacerbation of the disease helps reduce the severity of seasonal allergies in the warm season. All this time, enterosorbents are taken, for example, Polysorb, in order to remove toxins that cause hay fever from the body as much as possible.

Two to four weeks before the allergen plant begins to bloom, you need to start dropping Avamis spray (Flix, Forinex) into your nose.

Specific immunotherapy

Features of the treatment of seasonal allergies in children

When treating seasonal hay fever in children, it is important to choose the right antihistamine, which is taken based on the age of the baby.

For example, a doctor may prescribe the following nasal drops for children under one year of age:

1. Vibrocil;
2. Allergomax;
3. Marimer (for washing);
4. Grippostad Rhino (vasoconstrictors);
5. For oral administration – Allergonix, Pheniden, Fenistil, Zyrtec.

From one year and older:

1. Desal;
2. Rolinosis;
3. Parlazin;
4. Zodak.

Often prescribed to children before and after one year of age with seasonal allergies. They have a pleasant taste, but at the same time the same therapeutic effect as drops and tablets.

From two years:

1. Momat Reno;
2. Nosephrine;
3. With the hormones Nasonex and Desrinit.

From 6 to 12 years of age, as a rule, treatment is no longer different from that of an adult, it is only important to select the correct dosage of drugs. Of course, hormonal drugs fall under the exception.

Antihistamines in the form of tablets should be selected for a child by a doctor based on the presence of concomitant diseases.

Features of treatment during pregnancy

Treatment of seasonal allergies during pregnancy must be supervised by a doctor. He must select a treatment regimen with antihistamines. It is important to exclude, and if this does not work, then minimize the use of hormonal agents.

You need to drink more water, up to 2 liters per day, rinse your nose more often with saline solutions, which you can make yourself (1 teaspoon of kitchen or sea salt per 200 ml of warm water) or purchase at the pharmacy, for example, the Dolphin complex, Aqua Maris, Linaqua , Marimer et al.

More time needs to be devoted to preventive measures.

Folk remedies for the treatment of seasonal allergies

The use of folk remedies in the treatment of seasonal allergies is an additional method that does not exclude the use of antihistamines.

It is worth using natural remedies in advance, not during the period of exacerbation of the disease, in order to strengthen the immune system, cleanse the body of toxins, and ensure proper functioning of the digestive system.

An infusion of dried blackcurrant shoots and leaves will help strengthen the immune system.

2 tbsp. spoons of raw materials are poured with 300 ml of boiling water and infused for 1 hour. Then you need to pass everything through cheesecloth and add another 200 ml. warm water. Take a tablespoon every 2 hours for 7 days.

Celery and nettle also help strengthen the immune system. You can make juice from both plants with a 1:1 ratio. To do this, the raw materials need to be ground in a meat grinder and then squeezed manually through cheesecloth.

Celery can be taken as a vitamin supplement before meals. Consume ½ teaspoon of the plant three times a day.

Horsetail also helps improve health. 2 tbsp. spoons of dry raw materials are poured with 200 ml of boiling water. After 30 minutes, the infusion is filtered. Take 20 ml every hour for 14 days. Every 2 days you need to take a break.

Nettle has similar properties. A sprig of the plant is infused in 200 ml. boiling water for an hour. Do not add sugar. You need to drink every day for 2 weeks.

Dry or fresh figs help normalize the digestive system. The product should be consumed twice a day before breakfast and dinner on an empty stomach 30 minutes before meals. The norm is 1, 2 fruits.

There are many other traditional medicine recipes that help strengthen the body; there is no point in listing them all here. However, it is worth mentioning that honey should be used with caution to treat seasonal allergies, since this product is a strong allergen and can, on the contrary, provoke serious attacks of the disease.

The pathological process is activated by pollen. This was established 2 centuries ago. To date, about 500 plants have been identified to which seasonal allergies develop most often.

However, the extensive knowledge base on the issue does not help reduce the number of cases. Their number is growing steadily. Moreover, the disease can first appear in patients of any age group.

The condition develops against the background of:

• predisposition;
• bad environment;
• weakened immune system;
• taking potent medications;
• pregnancy;
• working in conditions that are recognized as harmful.

Most often, the occurrence of seasonal allergies should be sought at the genetic level. Mothers with a predisposition to hay fever give birth to children susceptible to it in 30% of cases. A quarter of patients inherit their disease on their father's side. At risk are babies whose both parents suffer from at least 1 type of allergy.

Attention! Obligate food allergens can also provoke an inadequate immune reaction. In other words, seasonal allergies may occur due to the consumption of certain foods.

Disease and time of year

Spring

In the ranking of the most aggressive seasons in terms of allergies, this season takes first place. It lasts 2 calendar months: starts in April and ends in May. However, many allergy sufferers begin to feel the approach of hay fever within 2 weeks.

In the spring, their eyes turn red, they sneeze several times in a row, and complain of an itchy nose. Symptoms are short-term in nature: they come and then disappear.

What the disease can develop in spring:

• birch;
• alder;

Summer

The season starts in May and ends in September-October. It is during this period of time that field grasses, ornamental flowers, and cereals bloom. Moreover, any weed can cause a reaction. For example, nettle is a fairly strong allergen.

Therefore, it will not be possible to avoid contact with the culprit. Moreover, hay fever lasts for more than a month or two in the summer.

There is only one way out: See an allergist in October-November. He will select therapy. It will last a long time, until the start of the warm season.

Symptoms

Disease in adults

According to the mechanism of occurrence and spread, as well as the nature and localization, the signs of seasonal allergies are in many ways similar to the manifestations of other types of allergies. First, the upper respiratory organs are involved in the pathogenic process. Then the disease descends lower.

The classic pattern of disease development is disrupted by the involvement of the visual organs. The patient experiences tearing, itching, and inflammation. Photophobia often develops. Possible swelling. In some cases, it moves to the cheek.

To make a diagnosis, the following signs and symptoms must be present in adult patients:

• disruption of the outflow of tear fluid (lacrimation);
• inflammation of the nasal mucosa or synchronous inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose and eyes;
• cough, sneeze.

Pathological manifestations from the organs of vision: itching, redness, swelling (usually of the upper eyelid, less often of the lower eyelid and cheeks), lacrimation, photophobia.

Pathological manifestations of the respiratory system: nasal congestion, itching in the nasal cavity, pollen asthma, nasal discharge, bronchospasm.

Possible symptoms: hoarseness, sneezing, migraine, nervousness, ear pain, swelling of the lips or tongue, abdominal cramps.

Children and seasonal allergies

In this category of patients, hay fever often occurs secretly or is disguised as a cold. For example, under otitis media. Due to the fact that the symptoms in children are not clearly expressed, it is rarely possible to identify the disease in time and begin its treatment.

In a child with a “hidden” course, only 1-2 symptoms are observed. The diagnosis is made when 3 or more signs are present. Children whose seasonal allergies manifest themselves in the form of a cough are in a more dangerous situation. In this case, due to improper therapy, there is a high risk of developing chronic lung diseases.

Attention! Be sure to make an appointment for your son or daughter with an allergist if you cannot cure a runny nose or otitis media within 2 weeks. This should also be done if conjunctivitis appears and disappears.

How to survive hay fever

The fight against seasonal allergies should include a comprehensive approach. Drug therapy should be combined with diet. A lot depends on human behavior. He needs to change his lifestyle: acquire a number of useful habits, refrain from certain actions.

Prevention

Seasonal allergies require preparation. The following tips will help you get through this difficult period:

• get rid of dust collectors;
• maintain an optimal level of humidity;
• install an air conditioner that has a mode for allergy sufferers;
• remove carpets from the floor.

Enlist the support of your household. Tell them about the new rules. This is necessary because some taboos and regulations will indirectly or directly affect everyone who lives in the same house as a person diagnosed with seasonal allergies.

• Avoid contact lenses. Wear glasses. It is better to make the transition in advance, 10-15 days before the expected start of the process.
• If the allergy recurs from year to year, you can always roughly calculate when it will occur next. Keep a diary. Note each year when symptoms appeared and disappeared. This method will help you prepare, and allergies won’t take you by surprise.
• Flowering dates will also help you navigate. Find out from an allergist which plant the body is reacting to inappropriately. Then write down the time period in which the allergen blooms. In this simple way you will find out exactly when the disease will manifest itself.
• Don't buy flowers. Don't bring home wildflowers. Even indoor plants pose a threat during this period.
• Limit your food intake which often cause allergies.
• Do not resort to traditional medicine recipes that recommend using infusions. The most dangerous herbs are: chamomile, dandelion, wormwood, coltsfoot, tansy.
• Provide yourself with a comfortable existence during photophobia with the help of blackout curtains.
• Washed items should not be hung outside.
• Staying at a resort can provoke an exacerbation. Before going on vacation, be sure to consult a specialist. This must be done even if you are traveling to tropical countries in winter or autumn. Remember, some trees and plants bloom in southern latitudes during the cold season.
• Do not use makeup when you have hay fever.
• Follow the official information. The nation's leading allergists are issuing warnings about the start of allergy season.
• Pets coming from the street are brought into the house. If you cannot give up your pet even for a few weeks, wash it thoroughly after every walk. Wash his sleeping area as often as possible.
• During the period of hay fever, you can take sick leave. In the acute course of the disease, doctors do not have the right to refuse the patient temporary release from work.
• Drink plenty of water. In this simple way you will slightly reduce the level of histamine in the body.

Outdoor precautions

The most important rule: medications should always be at hand. Even if you went down to take out the trash, you must have it in your pocket.

• After walking, thoroughly wash exposed areas of your body. Wash your clothes.
• The above rule should be followed not only by people suffering from hay fever, but also by their family members. They also go outside and can also bring an allergen into the house.
• Wear sunglasses when leaving the premises. If you have vision problems, consult an ophthalmologist. He will help you choose glasses in which you will feel comfortable during photophobia.
• Buy a hat that will cast a shadow on your face.
• On hot days, wear a medical mask. The bandage does not protect for as long, but with it, going to the grocery store will be safer. However, you cannot use the same mask twice. This not only makes no sense, but is even dangerous: allergens settle on the fabric.
• If possible, do not leave the premises before 10 am.
• In dry sunny weather it is better to stay at home.
• After the rain, you can safely take a promenade.
• Do not be in close proximity to meadows, parks, alleys.

Note! Pollen is most active between 5 and 9 am. Don't sleep with windows open. If possible, do not leave the premises during this time.

Cleaning for seasonal allergies

Wash more often, wash more thoroughly. General cleaning should be carried out systematically. Be sure to do it before the start of allergy season and immediately after the first symptoms appear.

• Reduce the number of airings, but do not completely abandon the event.
• Spray the curtains 2-3 times a day.
• Every evening, wipe the window frames at the joints and window sills.
• Avoid strong, caustic detergents. Buy chemicals recommended for use in educational institutions. For example, "Progress". It is approved for use in kindergartens.
• Practice hot cleaning technology. Steaming copes with what a rag and cold water will never reach.
• Vacuum not only the floor, but also the furniture.

The use of which in case of hay fever is fraught with deterioration in well-being.

If you have a seasonal allergy to meadow grasses, exclude from the menu:

• watermelon;
• citrus;
• mustard;
• garlic;
• halva;
• unrefined oil;
• mayonnaise;
• sunflower seeds;
• eggplant;
• alcohol based on herbs (tinctures, absinthe, vermouth);
• bananas.

If tree pollen is an allergen, you should avoid consuming the following foods:

• kiwi;
• cucumbers;
• raspberries;
• apples, pears;
• grape;
• dill;
• olives;
• nuts;
• tomatoes;

Cereal intolerance requires exclusion from the menu:

• kvass;
• cereal porridges;
• beer drinks;
• citrus fruits;
• strawberries;
• smoked meat;
• cocoa products.

The list of prohibited products consists of many items. At the same time, the restrictions will only slightly affect your lifestyle; you just need to choose a replacement for them.

Drug treatment

Indicated for hay fever, however, only an allergist is able to predict the body’s reaction to the intake of one or another active substance. To avoid adding to the list of allergens, seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Chloropyramine

Affordable medicine. The cost does not exceed 100 rubles. Available in the form of round white tablets and solutions for intramuscular and intravenous administration.

Even infants (those who are already a month old) can use the medicine. Sold according to prescription.

Cetirizine

Belongs to the group of 4th generation antihistamines. One of the safest medicines. With the correct dosage, it does not have a negative effect on the central nervous system.

Release form:

Astemizole

Just one dose of this syrup in spring or summer will help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies. The medicine is taken with food. The suspension does not interact with alcohol. Children under 2 years of age and patients who have problems with the respiratory and cardiovascular systems should not use Astemizole.

Erius

Available in the form of biconvex tablets and a pleasant-tasting syrup. Belongs to the group of antihistamines indicated for seasonal allergies. It is fast-acting and has a small dosage (adults are prescribed 1 tablet per day). May cause attacks of hyperexcitation in children.

Fenistil

Drops are indicated even for babies who are one month old. They can be used in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. The sedative effect is present, but the manifestations are not so noticeable. Most side effects are relieved by activated charcoal.

Xylometazoline

The medication is a decongestant. Vasoconstrictor nasal drops. They cost less than 40 rubles. Within a few minutes after application, signs of improvement are noticeable. It helps perfectly against this disease, but it is addictive. Treatment should not last longer than 2-3 weeks.

It is extremely important to identify the allergen. Knowing it, you can predict exactly when seasonal allergies will occur, and measures should be taken before and after the onset of symptoms.

Make an appointment with a highly specialized doctor, keep a calendar for hay allergies and general cleaning. Review your diet and daily routine, and then the disease, if it does not go away forever, will begin to be less aggressive.

The main symptoms of seasonal allergies, cross-reactions and provoking plants. Recommendations for people suffering from hay fever

It's a shame, but when in the spring everyone rejoices at the first greenery and the blossoming of fruit trees, some of us feel completely different emotions. Indeed, for people suffering from seasonal exacerbation of allergies, spring is the period when pollen and spores of some plants appear in the air, provoking allergic reactions: rhinitis, irritation of the mucous membranes, suffocation or skin rashes. Red eyes and a swollen nose are the most harmless reactions that can occur as a result of contact with an allergen.

Seasonal allergies - pollen allergy symptoms

• Sneezing, itching and sore throat and palate, runny nose, nasal congestion and swelling;
• Difficulty breathing, dry hacking cough, shortness of breath, suffocation, asthmatic component;
• Redness and itching in the eyes, tearing and photophobia;
• Allergic dermatitis - itching and rashes on the skin, redness or roughness of the skin;
• General deterioration of condition, weakness, irritability, headache, depression.

People suffering from seasonal allergies , you have to take care to have as little contact with the allergen as possible, because if no measures are taken, the disease can progress, involving other organs and vital systems of the body in the process. The most dangerous complications of seasonal allergies can be the diagnosis of asthma or the onset of Quincke's edema.

How can we prevent the condition from getting worse and not give allergies a chance to ruin our lives?

Of course, in order to know the enemy by sight, it is best to take an allergen test and determine what exactly provokes an allergic reaction, what products can cause cross-reactions, and when to expect the condition to worsen. An allergist will prescribe medications that will help relieve unpleasant symptoms and slow down allergic reactions. Of course, if hay fever has been tormenting you for more than a year, it would be wise to undergo a course of treatment in advance, during the period of remission, then you will be prepared for an unfavorable period, and the body will not react so sharply to the appearance of irritants.

• Take antihistamines as recommended by your doctor;
• Create optimally comfortable conditions at home: air temperature about 20 C, humidity 50-70%;
• Remove all dust containers and carry out wet cleaning daily;
• Install an air conditioner with cleaning and ionization function or purchase an air washer. If this is not possible, hang wet gauze on the window while airing;
• Try to spend less time outdoors during the period of maximum flowering, wear sunglasses when going outside, and rinse your face and mucous membranes thoroughly with cool water upon returning indoors;
• While in the car, close the windows and use the air conditioner;
• When you return home, treat your clothes with a steam brush and take a shower;
• Don’t keep animals at home, don’t use household chemicals, give up upholstered furniture, you don’t need unnecessary irritants;
• Avoid products that may cause cross-reactions;
• Choose cosmetics and skin care products with care;
• Follow a hypoallergenic diet to avoid worsening the condition;
• Before any medical procedures, inform doctors that you suffer from allergies.

In April-May, the air contains pollen from birch, poplar, willow, hazel, apple and dandelion, which are the most aggressive provocateurs of hay fever. In summer there comes a time when the pollen of cereal grasses becomes dangerous: timothy, wormwood, fescue, foxtail and other plants. In autumn, the most common allergy triggers are ragweed, quinoa, plantain, nettle, corn and sunflower. It is also time for active reproduction of fungi of the genus Alternari and Cladosporium.

It is dangerous because over time it can take on other forms and the list of allergens that cause responses may include not only plant pollen, but also many foods, dust, animal dander, etc.

It has been proven that if a person suffers from hay fever, there is a high probability that he is allergic to certain foods. In a special cross-reaction table you can find out which products are contraindicated for you. So, if you shed tears and sneeze in April-May, then you need to be careful with foods such as nuts, berries and fruits with seeds, parsley, carrots and celery. And if you know that you are allergic to cereal pollen, you need to give up baked goods, kvass and smoked sausage.

The most annoying thing is that if you have an allergy, it is impossible to get rid of it forever. But we have the power to alleviate our condition and prevent the progression of the disease.

• General mechanisms of allergies
• Seasonal allergies
• Treatment
• Allergies and pregnancy

Allergies year-round and seasonal

There are no fundamental differences between allergic conditions that occur year-round and those that are seasonal. In the first option, antigens do not depend on the biological rhythms of plants; encountering them is random.

With seasonal manifestations of the disease, allergens (pollen and spores) are associated with the time of year, temperature, air humidity and other natural conditions.

Otherwise, the mechanisms of the pathology are no different from any others - they are based on the same immune reactions of antigen-antibody interaction, so drugs for seasonal allergies are largely universal for all its manifestations.

General mechanisms of allergies

Any allergic disease is caused by the body's hypersensitivity to certain substances or physical factors. Why is this happening?

Emergence of predisposition

There is no single cause for allergies; they are caused by a combination of factors, including:

• hereditary predisposition;
• chronic infections;
• diseases that cause serious metabolic disorders (diabetes mellitus, etc.);
• hormonal changes;
• intoxication (industrial and household pesticides, alcohol, drugs);
• psycho-emotional trauma.

Sensitization

The combination of one or another of the mentioned factors leads to an increased readiness of the immune system for a protective reaction, which can occur without any significant reason - in response to the entry into the body of an antigen that is completely neutral for a healthy person.

Against the background of readiness for allergies, penetration of a certain substance into the bloodstream or mucous membranes leads to the synthesis of antibodies, which accumulate and remain in the blood. Subsequent arrivals of the same antigen will provoke an immune attack and the formation of antigen-antibody complexes, which can cause the release of inflammatory mediators from histiocyte cells.

Inflammatory mediators (treatment of seasonal allergies always includes drugs that neutralize their effect) cause external manifestations of the disease (bronchial spasm, skin rashes, copious mucus secretion from the upper respiratory tract, swelling, etc.).

Seasonal allergies

With seasonal allergies, antigens enter the body during breathing, as well as through direct deposition on the skin and mucous membranes. The routes of penetration largely determine the external manifestations of the disease - allergic rhinitis (runny nose) in combination with conjunctivitis, bronchial asthma, etc. Seasonal allergies in children are often “masked” as a cold.

Symptoms:

• copious secretion of mucus from the nasal passages;
• burning and sore throat and nose, causing coughing and sneezing;
• irritation of the conjunctiva, its redness, feeling of “sand” in the eyes, lacrimation and photophobia;
• shortness of breath, which can develop into attacks of suffocation;
• skin rashes accompanied by itching;
• intestinal dysfunction - abdominal pain, diarrhea;
• deterioration of general condition - weakness, fatigue, headaches, decreased performance, irritability.

Conjunctivitis due to seasonal allergies

Treatment

Remedies for seasonal allergies, on the one hand, are aimed at the general mechanisms of this pathology, on the other, they must take into account the characteristics of a particular disease. Below are the main medications and organizational measures aimed at combating seasonal allergies.

Allergy website

Hay fever or seasonal allergies are the reaction of the immune system to certain irritants that interact with the human body during certain periods and seasons. It is no coincidence that seasonal allergies were called hay fever; this word has the Latin root pollen, which means pollen. People suffered from hay fever before; in ancient Greece they sang the “food of the gods” - ambrosia nectar, which, by the way, was completely unsuitable for either those in power or common people, since it caused them severe skin rashes and suffocation.

Galen also briefly mentioned a disease resembling seasonal allergies; later Dr. Van Helmont associated massive coughing attacks with flowering trees. But the first concrete descriptions of the disease, called hay fever, date back to the beginning of the 19th century. The English healer Bostock officially designated a seasonal allergic reaction, linking it with the provoking factor – hay. More than 50 years later, his compatriot Dr. Blackley proved that seasonal allergies are caused by pollen. A decade later, a message about hay fever appeared in Russia, in St. Petersburg, it was made by Dr. Silich at an open meeting of the organization of Russian doctors. Massive clinical manifestations of seasonal allergies date back to the 50-60s of the last century; the first outbreak of hay fever was noted in the Krasnodar region, where ragweed began to multiply, the seeds and pollen of which were imported from the American states along with a cargo of food (grain).

Today, every fifth inhabitant of the planet suffers from hay fever, regardless of age, gender, region and climatic conditions of residence. It is obvious that the true number of people suffering from the flowering season of plants is much higher and this is a serious problem, since every year the statistical indicators inexorably increase, despite the obvious achievements in the study of this disease.

Causes of seasonal allergies

In the clinical sense, hay fever has been studied very extensively, fortunately, there was always plenty of material - patients suffering from rhinitis, skin rashes, shortness of breath. But the etiology and causes of seasonal allergies have only recently been determined. Previously, it was believed that the main factor triggering allergies was related to a possible predisposition associated with a genetic cause. Genetic predisposition does exist, but it has been proven that allergies are directly inherited, this is confirmed by statistics:

• In 25%-30% of cases, a mother suffering from allergies gives birth to children with allergic reactions.
• 20-25% of allergy sufferers have allergic heredity on their father's side.
• 50% of children born to fathers and mothers with allergies have a history of allergies.

Scientists have found specific genes that allergic parents pass directly to the baby, literally from the first hours of conception. In such children, a deficiency of the secretory function of immunoglobulin IgA is formed, which further contributes to sensitization of the body and an aggressive immune response to exposure to pollen of plants, trees and grasses.

In addition, the following groups of people can get hay fever:

• The population of territories where the environmental situation is considered unfavorable.
• People who have a history of allergies of another type, when the provoking factor is medications, food, or chemical compounds. Hay fever in such cases is a secondary disease; an example of this is the reaction to indoor plants that are not capable of producing pollen.
• Patients with chronic bronchopulmonary diseases.
• People with weakened immune systems.
• Workers in professions associated with hazardous working conditions.

The cause of allergies during the flowering period of plants is their pollen; it should be noted that hay fever can also be caused by fungal spores, which also produce them at seasonal intervals.

The pathogenetic mechanism for the development of hay fever is due to sensitization, “accustoming” of the immune system to allergens of pollen and fungal spores, of which today there are from 500 to 700 species. It has been established that 50 subspecies of pollen allergens are the most aggressive and widespread; these are, as a rule, plants and trees that grow everywhere, are unpretentious to weather changes and can survive in almost any climate. Each species is capable of acting as an antigenic determinant and provoking an atypical response from the immune system. In addition, pollen allergies can contribute to cross-sensitization, when the trigger is not pollen, but an obligate food allergen.

The causes of seasonal allergies, or more precisely, the culprits of the allergic reaction are the following trees and plants:

• Birch and its subspecies.
• Alder.
• Hazel (hazel).
• Linden.
• Ash.
• Sycamore.
• Cypress.
• Maple.
• Walnut.
• Flowering weeds – wormwood, ragweed.
• Meadow flowering grasses – clover, timothy, alfalfa.
• Cereals – buckwheat, oats, rye, wheat.

Seasonal allergies in spring

Spring is the time for the revival of nature, flowering and reproduction of plants. It is the spring period that is considered the most aggressive in the allergic sense, second only to the beginning of autumn in the number of exacerbations of hay fever, when ragweed comes into its own. Seasonal allergies in the spring most often manifest themselves as rhinoconjunctival symptoms; rashes and urticaria are less common. As such, the spring allergic period starts in early April and ends in May. At the end of April, the most allergic trees, birch and alder, are revived and begin to bloom. Hazel blooms a little later, although it all depends on the area where the trees “reside” and climatic conditions. The pollen produced by birch can spread for many kilometers, so a person suffering from allergies and not having these white-trunked beauties under his window is sometimes perplexed after a diagnosis that determines the birch allergen. In addition, poplar fluff, which is often blamed for all allergic “sins” of which it is not guilty, can also spread pollen. In the southern territories, poplar blooms quite early; already at the end of May it covers the ground with fluff, which is an excellent transport vehicle for heavier pollen. Nearby flowering trees are often adjacent to poplars, so their pollen settles on the downy seeds and is spread everywhere.

The symptoms that manifest seasonal allergies in the spring can debut long before the actual flowering; about 50% of allergy sufferers begin to notice tearing and redness of the eyes 7-10 days before the “hour X”. During this period, allergies can still be prevented or at least measures can be taken to reduce the severity of symptoms.

Signs of spring hay fever:

• Typical rhinitis – the nose is stuffy, it’s difficult to breathe. Sneezing attacks are typical, and the mucus secreted from the sinuses has a clear, liquid consistency.
• Allergic conjunctivitis - the eyes become red and swollen. Tearfulness, photophobia, and a feeling of “specks” in the eyes appear.
• Attacks of shortness of breath, similar to bronchial asthma. The cough is frequent, persistent, exhausting, and it is difficult to exhale.
• Dermatitis, most often atopic. The skin itches, a rash appears, and weeping or dry blisters appear.
• An exacerbation of symptoms can result in angioedema, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. Quincke's edema develops in 10% of allergy sufferers who suffer from spring exacerbations.

Often seasonal allergies in spring are accompanied by increased body temperature, headaches, decreased appetite, and general poor condition. It is no coincidence that in many developed countries they are fighting carminative plants and planting only safe types of flora on the streets, since employees with allergies not only have a reduced quality of life, but also their productivity drops by almost half. In addition, European countries have a good tradition of watering the streets early in the morning, this is especially effective in the spring - it’s clean and the pollen is washed away.

Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Hay fever is not much different from other types of allergic reactions in terms of the pathogenetic mechanism; the symptoms of seasonal allergies develop according to the classical pattern - from the nasal, respiratory tract, going lower - into the bronchi and lungs. However, hay allergies also have differences; they are associated with conjunctival symptoms. In addition to the nose, an allergy sufferer’s eyes also suffer; pollen settles on the eyeball, penetrates the mucous membranes and gives rise to aggressive immune processes. The first reaction of the immune system is recognition of the allergen, which is not always functional, then the body begins to produce specific antibodies to suppress the foreign antigen. Since all typical allergens have a structure containing protein, the immune system interacts with protein elements, and this is how the process of sensitization, a kind of adaptation, occurs.

In order for the symptoms of seasonal allergies to manifest themselves and develop into a recognizable clinical picture, a minimal portion of pollen is sufficient. However, in children, signs of hay fever can be hidden, and sensitization is also asymptomatic. Only after a few weeks or even months does the child develop a rash, his eyes become red and swollen, and allergic rhinitis appears.

The classic development of hay fever is characterized by the so-called allergic triad:

• Conjunctivitis and tearing.
• Rhinitis or rhinosinusitis.
• Cough and bronchospasm.

The following symptoms are typical for seasonal allergies:

• Itching and redness of the eyes.
• Puffiness of the eyes and increased tearing.
• Photophobia.
• Itching in the nasal cavity, sneezing (“allergic fireworks”).
• Nasal discharge is light in color and has a liquid consistency.
• Nasal congestion, difficulty breathing.
• Ear pain caused by involvement of the Eustachian tubes.
• Hoarseness of the voice, change in its timbre.
• Atopic dermatitis, urticaria.
• Headache, possible increase in body temperature.
• A specific type of asthma is pollen asthma and bronchospasm.

Bronchospastic manifestations do not occur in every allergy sufferer; if measures are taken in time, shortness of breath and spasms may not appear, however, in 30% of patients with a history of exacerbations from previous seasons, asthmatic attacks still occur. The most threatening consequence of bronchospasm is considered to be Quincke's edema, which develops in a matter of minutes and requires emergency medical care.

The general condition of hay fever often resembles the signs of acute respiratory viral infection or a cold, but without fever. In addition, seasonal allergies can manifest themselves in the form of pollen intoxication, when a person begins to have a migraine attack, develops weakness, irritability, and disturbed sleep. If pollen enters the digestive system, which often happens with cross allergies, nausea and abdominal pain appear, which often complicates the initial diagnosis - allergy symptoms can be so nonspecific. Such conditions are especially dangerous in children and the elderly, when the symptoms are hidden in the initial period, and exacerbations develop rapidly. Therefore, when the first signs similar to an allergic reaction appear, you should consult a doctor.

Seasonal allergies in children

Hay fever in modern children is a common occurrence that can develop due to the following reasons:

• Hereditary predisposition, genetic factor.
• Infectious, viral diseases of the mother during pregnancy.
• Contact with virus carriers, bacterial infections and, as a result, decreased immune defense.
• Living in an environmentally unfavorable environment.
• Disorders or sudden changes in nutrition, especially in infancy.
• Late or incorrect vaccination.
• Artificial feeding.
• Dysfunction of the digestive system.

Seasonal allergies in children can occur nonspecifically, like “masked” hay fever. Allergies can manifest as pain and congestion in the ears in the absence of the classic picture of hay fever symptoms. In some children, the allergic reaction looks like partial and transient redness of the eyes, a habit of constantly touching the nose - doctors figuratively call this symptom “allergic fireworks”. Sometimes children begin to cough and the allergy may be similar to typical bronchial asthma without rhinoconjunctival signs. The exact cause of the illness can only be determined by an allergist using a specific diagnosis that identifies a specific allergen.

Seasonal allergies during pregnancy

Almost all groups of the population are susceptible to hay fever, and pregnant women are no exception. Seasonal allergies during pregnancy follow the same pattern as in other patients, the main triad is lacrimation and conjunctivitis, runny nose, cough and possible bronchospasm. Skin rashes with hay fever are less common; they occur only with direct contact with the provoking factor. It should be noted that the hormonal system of expectant mothers works in a special mode, therefore, signs of hay fever may appear in an atypical form. The most indicative criterion for determining the root cause of discomfort is family history. If a pregnant woman's parents have allergies, it is likely that the woman also has a predisposition to allergies. There are also features in the differential diagnosis of hay fever in pregnant women, for example, rhinitis in the third trimester may not be a signal of allergies, but due to the influence of changes in hormonal levels (progesterone). Therefore, as a rule, an accurate diagnosis can be established only after childbirth, when the function of the hormonal system is normalized, and during pregnancy only correct symptomatic therapy is carried out.

If seasonal allergies do appear during pregnancy, then the main rules for the patient are constant monitoring by a doctor and maximum elimination of the provoking factor. Dynamic observation by an allergist is necessary to reduce the risk of developmental pathologies in the baby, because if the mother has a persistent cough or nasal congestion, especially in the case of bronchospasm, fetal hypoxia is possible. The expectant mother has a much harder time with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), and exacerbation significantly worsens her condition and quality of life in general.

Confirmed hay fever in the mother practically guarantees a predisposition to allergies in the child, at least statistics define it this way:

• Half of children born to allergic parents are predisposed to allergic reactions.
• If a seasonal allergy appears in the expectant mother, and the child’s father is healthy in this sense, the risk of developing an allergic reaction in the child is possible at 25-30%.

Treatment of seasonal allergies during pregnancy is very specific. The opinion about the danger of using antiallergic drugs for pregnant women is completely unfounded; it is much more dangerous than exacerbation and pathology of the fetus with untreated hay fever. In addition, in 1.5% of expectant mothers during pregnancy, a reaction to pollen causes severe bronchospasm and angioedema, so refusal of symptomatic treatment at a minimum poses a threat to health, and at maximum to life in general. Currently, there are many gentle methods of antiallergic therapy, safe means that do not affect the course of pregnancy and fetal development. Most often, drugs are prescribed in nasal form; systemic antihistamines can be prescribed only in exceptional cases, during exacerbations and a threat to life. Of course, the simplest and most free of complications is the method of elimination, that is, refusal of contact with the provoking situation or factor. Pregnant women prone to allergies need to choose a time and place for walks, after which they must wash their entire body under running water and take a shower. On sunny, windless days, it is better to stay at home with the windows and vents closed. The level of humidity in the room is also important; the higher it is, the lower the risk of coming into contact with pollen allergens. Please note that the trigger may not be pollen, but mold spores, so home hygiene must be observed very carefully. Limiting the use of household chemicals, a gentle hypoallergenic diet, a positive attitude and trust in the experience and knowledge of the doctor will help the expectant mother safely survive the pollen flowering season and prepare for childbirth.

Temperature for seasonal allergies

Among the symptoms of hay fever may be an increase in temperature. Temperature in seasonal allergies is not a specific symptom and is quite rare, but if it occurs, it greatly complicates the diagnosis of the disease. This is due to the fact that quite often an allergy to plants is clinically similar to the picture of ARVI, acute respiratory infections, especially in the initial period. A runny nose, malaise, headache, lack of rash - all this can mislead the patients themselves, who begin to treat a false cold on their own. Uncontrolled use of drugs not only erases the typical symptoms of allergies, but also complicates its course, which can result in hyperthermia as the body’s most aggressive reaction to the inflammatory process.

Most often, fever due to seasonal allergies occurs in young children. Especially when hay fever manifests itself in the form of a rash and urticaria. A febrile state during allergies is an adaptive, compensatory mechanism of the body to the influence of a non-infectious aggressive factor. The main role in the pathogenesis of fever is played by interleukin (IL), an intercellular mediator that is activated during inflammatory processes. In children, the level of IL is always slightly higher due to age-related characteristics, so their hyperthermia lasts quite a long time, sometimes even after acute symptoms have subsided. It has been established that children aged 2 to 7 years are predisposed to atopic reactions, so the likelihood of fever during various exacerbations is very high. In adult allergy sufferers, an increase in temperature is extremely rare, and can serve as a signal of exacerbation of a concomitant infectious disease, but not hay fever. The main medicine that relieves fever is paracetamol and its derivatives. When prescribing an antipyretic, the doctor always takes into account the characteristics of the patient, the course of the allergic reaction and the advisability of taking an antipyretic in principle. As a rule, the elevated temperature of seasonal allergies subsides after the main symptoms are neutralized, most often immediately after elimination.

Diagnosis of seasonal allergies

Identification of the root cause of an allergic seasonal reaction is based on a survey of the patient and taking into account the special flowering calendar of carminative flora common in a particular area.

In addition to collecting anamnesis, including family history, diagnosing seasonal allergies involves conducting allergy tests, which identify the main “culprit” of the aggressive immune reaction. Determining the “culprit” of sensitization

carried out in several ways:

• Endonasal provocative allergy tests.
• Conjunctival provocative tests.
• Prick-test, microinjection test.
• Provocative inhalation test.
• Skin prick tests.
• Detection of specific antibodies, IgE.

Almost all tests are carried out outside the period of exacerbation and, in principle, outside the flowering season of plants (except for immunological analysis of blood serum). At the height of the season, eosinophilia can be detected in nasal mucus, but this is a nonspecific sign indicating a specific type of allergy, much less an allergen.

Diagnosis of seasonal allergies may include the following areas:

1. General clinical examination - blood and sputum tests.
2. Instrumental examination of the nasal sinuses, bronchopulmonary system.
3. Specific allergy tests outside the palination season.
4. Consultations of related specialists - dermatologist, immunologist, ENT doctor, pulmonologist.

Treatment of seasonal allergies

Therapeutic measures that involve the treatment of seasonal allergies depend on the flowering period (spring, summer or autumn), the stage of the allergic process and the characteristics of the patient’s body.

The goal of treatment is not only to reduce the severity of symptoms, but also to protect vulnerable organs (targets) from exposure to allergens. In addition to eliminating the provoking factor, one of the main methods is pharmacotherapy, which can be divided into the following groups:

1. Preventive agents are non-steroidal antihistamines. These medications are able to inhibit the very initial phase of the immune response to the allergen. Preventing the secretion of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the production of histamine helps to reduce the severity of allergies. Antihistamines are indicated throughout the flowering season of trees and plants, even in the absence of obvious symptoms. The forms of the drug can be either tablets or intranasal, in the form of sprays, powders for inhalation, and aerosols. There is a convenient form for children - syrup, which is no less effective and is well accepted by children. Ointments and gels, as a rule, contain glucocorticosteroids in their composition. Local corticosteroids are very active against skin rashes, relieve itching and inflammation well, but act slowly (penetrate into the skin), so they are combined with dosage forms that can quickly relieve allergy symptoms.
2. Symptomatic treatment of seasonal allergies also involves the use of antihistamines, most often to relieve rhinitis and conjunctivitis. New generation drugs are available in a form convenient for administration, both topically and orally. Forms and advantages of III, IV generation antihistamines:

• Forms - drops, sprays, syrups, suspensions, aerosols, tablets.

Advantages: taken 1-2 times a day, no drowsiness, rapid action (within 30-60 minutes), duration of action (up to 24 hours), high rate of absorption by the digestive organs, no addictive effect.

Symptomatic therapy is effective in the first days of an acute allergic process, then a transition to preventive medications is indicated with mandatory adherence to a hypoallergenic diet.

How to relieve seasonal allergies?

In order to answer the question - how to alleviate seasonal allergies, you must first remember the basic therapeutic actions:

• Avoidance and exclusion of contact with the allergen, that is, pollen. Elimination is 70% of success in the treatment of hay fever, and the patient himself can do this.
• Drug therapy, which involves taking antihistamines, most often in the form of ophthalmic or nasal sprays. Glucocorticosteroids can be prescribed during exacerbation of the process and only in exceptional cases; GCS are also prescribed to those who suffer from pollen asthma to relieve asthma attacks.
• ASIT – allergen-specific immunotherapy. This is a whole process that lasts for months, during which the body “learns” to counteract the allergen less aggressively. ASIT is a very effective method, but it cannot be carried out during an exacerbation, that is, from the beginning of spring to the end of the autumn season. The best time for ASIT is winter, when you can receive a full course of treatment and survive the flowering season relatively calmly.

How to relieve seasonal allergies with pharmacotherapy?

Treatment of hay fever involves the use of drugs that can suppress the inflammatory process caused by allergies. The medications should be taken as prescribed by a doctor throughout the season, daily, even in the absence of pronounced signs of a reaction to pollen. What is prescribed for seasonal allergies?

• Antihistamines of the latest generation, which do not cause complications or addiction. They are often prescribed even to small children and pregnant women to avoid serious exacerbations or to relieve them.
• Sodium cromoglycate preparations. Cromones are often prescribed for allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis in the form of eye, nasal drops, and sprays. They block calcium channels in the mast cell membrane, which reduces the aggressiveness of inflammation.
• Vasoconstrictor drugs are decongestants that regulate the tone of the circulatory system and relieve symptoms of rhinitis well.
• Glucocorticosteroids are prescribed when the use of antihistamines does not produce results. GCS are taken in a short course until the most acute symptoms are completely relieved, then treatment involves more gentle methods.

Seasonal Allergy Remedies

Treatment of hay fever involves complex actions based on the main event - elimination of the pollen trigger and exclusion from the diet of possible food provocateurs in case of cross-allergy.

Remedies for seasonal allergies are divided into different groups and can be as follows:

• Antihistamines of the latest generation. They are effective and safe, have a long-lasting effect; often it is enough to take one tablet, the effect of which lasts up to 12 hours.
• Vasoconstrictors.
• Combined drugs.
• Sodium cromoglycate preparations.
• GCS – glucocorticosteroids.
• ASIT – specific immunotherapy.
• Hemocorrection.

Let's take a closer look at remedies for seasonal allergies.

1. Antihistamines, the mechanism of action of which is aimed at preventing exacerbation. In the first hours after taking antihistamines, swelling of the nasal sinuses decreases and nasal discharge stops. Antihistamines are divided into 4 groups, the last 2 of which are considered the most effective and safe, these are drugs of the 3rd and 4th generations.

Previously produced antihistamines had the following complications:

• Dizziness, drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Nausea.
• Impaired coordination of movements.
• Decreased or increased appetite.
• Heart rhythm disturbance.
• Joint pain.

New generation drugs do not have such side effects and are absolutely safe, of course, if prescribed by a doctor.

1. Are vasoconstrictors stimulants? – adrenoreceptors. These may be sanorin, oxymetazoline, otrivin, galazolin and other medications that help neutralize allergic runny nose and congestion in the nasal cavity. The course of treatment with the nasal form of the drug should not exceed a week; if there is no result, the doctor adjusts the prescription; self-administration of vasoconstrictors can cause complications.
2. Combination drugs are antihistamines combined with pseudoephedrines - actifed, clarinase.
3. Cromones are sodium cromoglycates. For hay fever, cromones are prescribed topically in the form of drops - cromoglin, lomuzol, high-chrome, opticrom. Sodium is able to bind membrane proteins and reduce aggressive manifestations of allergies in the eyes and nose.
4. GCS - glucocorticosteroids can quickly relieve inflammation; they are prescribed locally in the form of ointments, less often in the form of drops, inhalations - for pollen asthma. This could be betamethasone, nazacort, sintaris, rhinocort, beconase and other drugs from the GCS group.

Seasonal allergy medications

Drug treatment of hay fever is aimed at relieving and controlling symptoms; drugs for seasonal allergies are selected in accordance with the clinical manifestations and severity of the process.

• Mild symptoms, minor manifestations of hay fever. The main treatment is the use of prophylactic non-steroidal antihistamines - Claritin, Zyrtec, Kestin. These seasonal allergy medications do not cause drowsiness, are long-lasting, and are not addictive. First generation drugs can be prescribed for itching, rash, when, on the contrary, drowsiness and sedation will be effective. Nasal form - allergodil, histimet help relieve itching in the nose, runny nose and nasal congestion are neutralized by naphthyzin, galazolin and other vasoconstrictor drops.
• The average severity of hay fever is controlled by local corticosteroids (glucocorticosteroids); rashes and dermatitis respond well to treatment with such medications. GCS is also effective for lacrimation and eye hyperemia; Oftan or dexamethasone are prescribed. The latest generation antihistamines in combination with GCS ointments give results literally after 1-2 days.
• Severe seasonal allergies require the prescription of high doses of hormones to relieve acute symptoms. Antileukotriene drugs that reduce the inflammatory process are also indicated. Hormones are indicated for a short course; as soon as the exacerbation is neutralized, the patient is transferred to a more gentle therapy.

Thus, medications for seasonal allergies are the main groups:

• Antihistamines of 4 generations.
• Cromons.
• GCS - glucocorticosteroids.
• Combination drugs (combination of antihistamines and ephedrines).

Eye drops for seasonal allergies

In the treatment of conjunctival symptoms in hay fever, the main means are 2 groups of drugs - antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers. Eye drops for seasonal allergies can be prescribed as monotherapy, but they are also used in complex therapy.

Chronic and subacute forms of conjunctivitis caused by allergies are treated with cromones - sodium cromogicates. These are drugs such as cromohexal, alomide. 2% cromohexal is effective in treating symptoms in children, as it is less likely to cause burning and irritation of the eyes. Alomide is also capable of inducing the release of histamine, in addition, it helps restore the structure of the cornea of ​​the eye, so it is prescribed for all types of allergies accompanied by ophthalmological symptoms.

Acute allergic conjunctivitis is treated with more active drugs. Eye drops for seasonal allergies in this form are Allergodil, Spersallerg. These drops can relieve symptoms within 15 minutes, the effect lasts up to 6 hours, which makes these types of products very popular in the treatment of ophthalmic manifestations of hay fever.

The following drops prescribed for allergic inflammatory processes in the eyes are also effective:

• Ifiral.
• High-chrome.
• Lecrolin.
• Allergokrom.
• Irtan.

Treatment of seasonal allergies with folk remedies

In addition to specific therapy, allergies can be treated with so-called folk remedies. Of course, such prescriptions can be used only with the consent of the attending physician, and only during the period of remission to prevent relapses of exacerbation. Natural gifts must be used with caution, since many herbs themselves are allergens.

Treatment of seasonal allergies with folk remedies, safe and tested by many patients, recipes:

1. Infusion of black currant leaves and twigs. You need to prepare 2 tablespoons of dry material or take 4 tablespoons of fresh crushed leaves. They need to be filled with 300 ml of boiling water, left in a thermos for 1 hour, then strained and added with warm boiled water to a volume of 500 ml. Drink a tablespoon of infusion every 2 hours for a week. If the infusion runs out, it needs to be prepared again; a freshly brewed remedy activates the immune system much better and removes toxins from the body.
2. Horsetail - 2 tablespoons of dry herb, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, filter. You need to drink the product every hour during the day, then repeat the course after 2 days. A total of 7 courses are needed, that is, horsetail decoction is taken for two weeks.
3. Mix 2 tablespoons of first aid kit with a tablespoon of dry nettle. Pour the mixture with 500 ml of boiling water, leave in a thermos for 10 hours (it is convenient to prepare the product in the evening). In the morning, filter the broth, you should get about 400 ml of the finished drug. Take half a glass 30 minutes before each meal for a week.
4. Celery root juice, which contains amino acids, tyrosine, choline, nicotinic acid. The juice has a good effect on blood composition, normalizes metabolism, and removes toxins. The product should be made from fresh root vegetables, take one teaspoon before meals, at least half an hour. The course of treatment is 14 days. It is recommended to start taking celery juice with a teaspoon, then monitor the condition of the body, since celery contains Apium graveolens - essential compounds that can cause a secondary allergic reaction.
5. If you are not allergic to essential oils, you can consume fennel or dill in the form of an oil extract for a week. Essential oil should be dripped onto a piece of sugar, 3-5 drops, the dosage regimen is three times a day, half an hour before meals.
6. A calcium chloride solution drunk 30-40 minutes after eating effectively prevents exacerbations of hay fever. The recipe is as follows: add a teaspoon of Calcium chloridum to a glass of chilled boiled water.
7. Taking fresh or dried figs daily helps normalize digestion, metabolism and strengthen the immune system. Figs are taken on an empty stomach, in the morning before breakfast, 30-40 minutes before meals. There is no strict dosage, but it is recommended to eat one fruit in the morning and evening.
8. Avicenna's recipe - taking mumiyo. 1 gram of the product is dissolved in a liter of warm boiled water, taken only in the morning. Children from 3 to 5 years old are recommended to take 30-50 ml of solution, older children under 14 years old - 75 ml daily, adults with allergies can drink 100 ml in the morning. The course of treatment lasts at least three weeks. Doctors are favorable to this recipe and advise using it as a preventative and treatment for seasonal allergies every year.
9. Skin rashes and itching will help relieve special baths; dilute 10 tablespoons of pharmaceutical clay in a liter of warm water, pour the solution into the main warm water. You need to lie in this clay “medicine” for 15-20 minutes, then wash it off your skin in the shower.
10. A decoction of the string, combined with bathing in a healing solution of this herb, can significantly alleviate the condition of a person suffering from hay fever. Recipe: 5 tablespoons of the string are poured with cold water, after an hour they begin to cook the product over low heat for 15 minutes. The cooled mixture is filtered and divided into 2 parts. The first one needs to be drunk 50 ml every 3 hours, the second one should be poured into a warm bath and lie in this water for 20-25 minutes. Such procedures must be repeated every three days for 2 months in a row.

You should pay attention to recipes containing honey. Many sources advise taking the solution or honey in its pure form, but allergists are categorically against such experiments. Firstly, honey itself is a pollen product and can trigger an allergy attack. Secondly, even if a reaction to honey has not previously been observed, it is likely that it may appear as a symptom of a cross-allergy.

Treatment of seasonal allergies with folk remedies can be quite effective, subject to regular use of recipes, patience and mandatory doctor’s recommendations. Sometimes herbal infusions are taken for years to achieve the effect; some allergy sufferers see a decrease in symptoms after just a few weeks, it all depends on the intensity of the allergic process and the individual characteristics of the person.

Diet for seasonal allergies

As with any other therapeutic strategy, the treatment of hay fever involves a diet that helps alleviate the patient’s condition and reduce the risk of possible exacerbations. Allergy sufferers are, in principle, very sensitive to any food, which is due to the pathogenesis of the disease itself, so the diet for seasonal allergies must be special. You should immediately identify those products that can cause

the same signs as when exposed to pollen allergens:

1. An allergy to pollen from flowering weeds (wormwood, chicory, ragweed) can occur when consuming the following products:

• Seeds – sunflower, pumpkin.
• Halva.
• Vegetable oils.
• Melon.
• Mayonnaise.
• Eggplants, zucchini.
• Watermelon.
• Alcoholic drinks containing weeds (aperitifs) - vermouth, balsam, tinctures.
• Mustard.
• Greens, especially tarragon, parsley, basil.
• Bananas.
• Carrots (raw).
• Garlic.
• All citrus fruits.

These same products should not be consumed if you are allergic to sunflower or calendula. In addition, you should carefully use herbal remedies containing the following herbs:

• Chamomile.
• Yarrow.
• Dandelion.
• Coltsfoot.
• Elecampane.
• Tansy.

1. Seasonal allergies to pollen from flowering trees - alder, hazel, birch, apple tree:

• All types of nuts.
• Fruits growing on flowering trees - pears, apples, apricots, cherries and so on.
• Raspberries.
• Kiwi.
• Olives.
• Parsley.
• Dill.
• Birch juice.
• Tomatoes.
• Cucumbers.

You should not take decoctions of birch buds, alder cones, tansy and calendula.

1. Allergy to cereal pollen - wheat, buckwheat, corn, oats, rye:

• Use all baked goods with caution.
• Kvass.
• Beer.
• Oatmeal, rice, wheat porridge.
• Coffee.
• Smoked products – meat and fish.
• Cocoa products.
• Citrus.
• Strawberry wild-strawberry.

The list of prohibited foods is very long, and the question quite logically arises, what should people suffering from hay fever eat?

• Buckwheat grain.
• All fermented milk products, yoghurts without fruit additives. Particularly useful is cottage cheese, which contains calcium, which helps strengthen the vascular wall and its “impermeability.”
• Brynza.
• Lean meats and poultry.
• Stewed, boiled cabbage, with caution - zucchini.
• Green peas, young beans.
• Baked light varieties of apples.
• Refined, deodorized vegetable oil.
• Use butter with caution.
• Boiled, baked potatoes.
• Bread, crackers.
• Raisin.
• Dried fruits compote.
• Green tea.

The list of “forbidden” foods is not a dogma; you should limit their consumption during an exacerbation period, for about two weeks, then you can gradually include them in the menu. Diet for seasonal allergies is not a test or torment, you need to take it seriously, just like any other type of treatment. Sometimes it is the adherence to a diet that significantly alleviates the severity of allergic symptoms, which once again demonstrates its importance and significance.

Preventing seasonal allergies

To ensure that the season of flowering and pollen release does not become a period of exacerbation of the allergic reaction, it is necessary to follow certain preventive measures.

Prevention of seasonal allergies includes the following actions and prohibitions:

• Contact with offending plants should be avoided. If possible, go outside less often and reduce your walking time, especially in windy or hot, sunny weather.
• Indoors, windows and doors should be closed; hanging the windows with a damp transparent cloth that absorbs pollen has a good effect. If a window or window is open at night, it should be closed early in the morning, since pollen production is especially active between 5 and 9 am.
• Every time you come home from the street, you should thoroughly wash your hands and entire body, it is advisable to wash your hair as well, since your hair may contain enough pollen to cause an allergy.
• After walking, you should change clothes that may contain traces of pollen.
• When traveling in a car, you should close the windows, into which pollen can enter along with the air flow.
• If possible, during the most active period of flowering of trees and plants, it is better to take a vacation and move to areas with humid air (sea or river coast).
• We should not forget that grasses also provoke allergies, so no matter how much you like the smell of freshly cut grass or the look of a trimmed lawn, you should avoid these places.
• After washing, linens and clothes should be dried indoors, since damp fabric is an excellent “sorbent” for pollen.
• A few months before the “hour X”, that is, before the flowering season, care should be taken to strengthen the immune system and normalize the functioning of the digestive organs. It is also necessary to check the body for helminthic infestations, since they significantly increase the rate of sensitization of the body to the allergen.
• You should familiarize yourself with and remember the list of “prohibited” products that can become obligate allergens in case of cross-allergy. This list also includes medicinal herbs, of which there are many in pharmaceutical preparations and herbal medicines.

Seasonal allergies are a disease of civilization, as many doctors believe, the reasons for this may be related to external and internal factors, which sometimes cannot be curated and treated. However, despite its scale, hay fever still does not affect every inhabitant of the planet. Consequently, the use of timely preventive measures makes it possible to bring hay fever under control - at a minimum, reduce the severity of clinical manifestations of allergies or prolong the period of remission, and at maximum, completely get rid of seasonal allergies.

Source allergy

Seasonal allergies are an allergic reaction that is a protective response of the immune system to various foreign substances in the inhaled air. In most cases, an allergic reaction is observed to allergens that come into contact with outdoors, usually mold and pollen.

Seasonal allergies in children usually manifest themselves at certain times of the year, but occasionally they can occur year-round in the case of constant contact with the provoking allergen. Typically, this allergic reaction manifests itself as seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis (conjunctivitis) and allergic rhinitis, or pollen seasonal bronchial asthma.

If a child has an allergic reaction to fruit juices and purees, you should be especially careful in spring and summer, because in this case, after three years, the baby may develop a seasonal allergy to pollen. If you look superficially, then at first glance there is nothing in common between dandelion and melon, carrots and alder. However, numerous biological studies have proven that the pollen and fruits of plants contain protein molecules with identical sections, which are the cause of the development of cross allergic reactions. If your baby's cheeks turn red from cherry jam, it is possible that he will begin to sneeze and cough after a walk through the birch grove. But if a child is allergic to citrus fruits, then a bouquet of daisies can cause a severe runny nose.

Seasonal allergies - causes

Like all other allergic reactions, seasonal allergies are caused by an attack of the immune defense by allergens entering the body through the skin, with food or inhaled air. With seasonal allergies, the allergens that provoke the reaction, along with the inhaled air, enter the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract (lungs, throat, nose and mouth) and eyes. Most often, it is very difficult to determine a specific allergen. After the provoking allergen begins to come into contact with the mucous membranes, leukocytes begin to produce antibodies to these foreign substances, which subsequently leads to the development of an allergic reaction, which is sometimes called hypersensitivity to inherently harmless substances.

Pollen is the most common allergen in seasonal allergies. Pollen is microscopic particles produced in flowers (the male part of the reproductive organs of all flowering plants). Pollen from wind-pollinated plants is carried by air movement, pollinating (fertilizing) other plants of its species. Depending on the local climate, each plant species has a certain period of pollen release. Some plants pollinate in the spring, others in the summer or early autumn. Moreover, the further north you go, the later the pollination period begins. Pollen from some grasses, trees and weeds (ragweed, etc.) is more likely to cause an allergic reaction than others. Pollen from insect-pollinated plants is much less allergenic than pollen from wind-pollinated plants.

Molds are another fairly common allergen. Mold is a fairly large group of fungal families that do not form fruiting bodies. Fungal spores, unlike pollen, are constantly observed in the air, and their concentration depends on current conditions, and not on the season. Molds are extremely common and can be found outdoors as well as in agricultural and residential environments. They thrive in the soil, on damp wood and rotting plant debris. Indoors, they often live in places where air does not circulate freely (bathrooms, attics, basements, etc.).

Risk factors for the development of seasonal allergies include: the presence of this allergic disease in blood relatives, bronchial asthma, eczema, periodic contact with a provoking allergen, nasal polyps. With age, the type of allergens to which an allergic reaction is observed may change, as well as the symptoms themselves often change.

Periods of development of seasonal allergies:

Spring is the time of flowering of hazel trees, plane trees, maples and birches

Summer is the period of flowering of flowers and cereals

Autumn is the flowering period of asteraceae (wormwood, quinoa, ragweed)

Seasonal allergies - symptoms

The symptoms of seasonal allergies are not always terrible. In some people, the allergic reaction is quite tolerable, without noticeable changes in appearance and profuse runny nose. In this case, there is no need to change the established rhythm of life. However, quite severe cases of allergic manifestations can also occur, when a mandatory visit to an allergist is required. However, even if the symptoms of seasonal allergies are quite mild, treatment is still necessary, since the implicit picture at first can begin to progress, gradually turning into bronchial asthma and autoimmune diseases.

The main symptoms of seasonal allergies: runny nose with the release of liquid transparent discharge, sneezing, nasopharyngeal drip, nasal congestion, a feeling of congestion in the ears (in the ear), red, watery eyes, insomnia, loss of energy, fatigue, burning and itching in the nose, irritation of the conjunctiva and soft palate, rash on various areas of the skin (between the fingers, lower abdomen, groin, etc.)

If symptoms of seasonal allergies appear, you should not delay visiting a doctor. Using a simple procedure, a qualified allergist can easily determine the type of plant that negatively affects health. The diagnosis itself consists of performing skin tests with a set of the most common pollen allergens in the patient’s place of residence.

Seasonal allergies - treatment

Fortunately, seasonal allergies do not always require specialized treatment, and simple hygiene procedures and avoiding contact with the provoking allergen are often sufficient. If these measures were not enough, you can buy an antiallergic drug at any pharmacy.

Contact with suspected or known allergens should be avoided. This is achieved by installing protective air filters in the room. You should also carefully close doors and windows, and if contact with an allergen is unavoidable, you should use protective bandages on your nose and mouth, as well as gloves.

It is necessary to shower as often as possible, change clothes, and carry out wet cleaning. You should also get rid of curtains, rugs, carpets and other things that can accumulate dust in large quantities.

If you have mild symptoms, rinsing your nose and gargling with slightly salted warm water (2 tablespoons of table salt per 200 ml of water) helps quite well. To relieve itching in the throat, eyes and to reduce a runny nose, you can take over-the-counter antihistamines (Diphenhydramine, etc.), but you should be aware that such drugs have an inhibitory effect and their use is strictly contraindicated when driving cars or other vehicles and high-risk mechanisms.

If simple measures are not enough, with acute or persistent symptoms, treatment with medications is necessary, not only to eliminate and alleviate symptoms, but also to prevent them.

Corticosteroid nasal sprays Fluticasone, Triamcinolone, Beclomethasone, in the vast majority of cases, are the most effective. Due to the fact that they are used topically and in small dosages, these sprays are almost completely free of side effects that are typical for corticosteroid drugs. Sprays also successfully relieve swelling, eliminate itching and nasal congestion, and do not cause drowsiness. To achieve a lasting effect, they should be taken daily for several days.

Other common medications prescribed to treat seasonal allergies are antihistamines, which are available without a prescription in most countries (Hydroxyzine, Diphenhydramine, Tripelennamine, Clemastine). All of the listed antihistamines are relatively inexpensive and are freely available, but the achieved effect does not last long and, moreover, they have a strong sedative effect, as a result of which they are strictly contraindicated for people who, due to their professional activities, are required to react quickly. I would also like to note that in the case of constant use, the sedative effect decreases over time, but this also applies to the anti-allergic effect. As an alternative, it is possible to use long-acting drugs such as Desloratadine, Loratadine, Fexofenadine. Despite the fact that they are more expensive and are usually available only by prescription, they should be taken only once a day, and the sedative effect is practically not felt after taking them.

More details - seasonal disease. Diathesis and allergies in children

• Drug treatments

Hay fever (from Latin pollinis - dust, pollen) pollen allergy, hay runny nose, chronic allergic disease caused by plant pollen and manifested by allergic inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, mainly the nose (seasonal runny nose) and eyes (conjunctivitis). Hay fever is one of the most common allergic diseases in children. They affect from 4.8 to 11.8% of children. And although a child may develop a pollen allergy as early as the second year of life, the disease often remains undiagnosed.

Causes

The development of hay fever is determined by sensitization - an increase in the body's sensitivity to the effects of any environmental factor, in this case to plant pollen, and depends on what plants grow in a given climatic zone. In central Russia there are three main flowering periods:

• spring - April-May: pollen from trees (birch, alder, oak, hazel, etc.) is present in the air;
• summer - June-July - in the air - pollen of cereal grasses (bluegrass, wheatgrass, fescue, hedgehog, foxtail, timothy, etc.);
• late summer, or summer-autumn, associated with the flowering of asteraceae and goosefoot plants (wormwood, quinoa, ragweed).

The pollen of these plants is widespread in our region. Its dimensions are extremely small - from 10 to 50 microns. It is released in huge quantities and is easily carried by the wind.

In the occurrence and development of allergic reactions, heredity plays an important role - the transmission from parents to the child of genes responsible for a predisposition to allergies. If only the mother suffers from hay fever, the gene is transmitted in 25% of cases, if the father and mother - in 50%.

Development

The mechanism for the development of allergic reactions in a child predisposed to them can be started at any age. Pollen enters the body through the respiratory tract or eyes and settles on the mucous membrane of these organs. In order for an allergy to develop, negligible doses of pollen are enough.

First, the body undergoes a process of recognition of the allergen by cells of the immune system and the production of protective substances (antibodies) against this foreign agent - the so-called sensitization phase. Outwardly, it does not manifest itself in any way, and a lot of time can pass from the moment of first contact with pollen until signs of the disease develop.

For example, last year the child did not react to flowering plants, but pollen entered the body. And this spring, with the first buds opening, the baby had a second encounter with the allergen, which is why the cells of his immune system released specific substances (histamine, cytokines, etc.) that cause allergies and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.

Hay fever developed. This is called the resolution or manifestation phase of the disease.

Symptoms

This disease has a clear seasonality, repeating from year to year and coinciding with the flowering period of certain plants. Symptoms of hay fever are most intense in the morning hours during the period of maximum pollen concentration in the air.

Allergic conjunctivitis1 appears (lacrimation, photophobia, severe redness of the mucous membrane, severe itching and swelling of the eyelids, a feeling of sand in the eyes), combined with an allergic runny nose (itching in the nose, impaired nasal breathing, copious liquid transparent nasal discharge, bouts of sneezing - from 10 up to 30 sneezes in a row).

The child breathes through his mouth, wrinkles his nose, rubs it with his palm, causing a transverse wrinkle to appear on it.

Damage to the nasal mucosa is usually bilateral. Swelling of the mucous membrane leads to decreased hearing, sense of smell, and headaches. Unlike acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI), with hay fever, fever and weakness are rarely observed, there is no sharp sore throat, redness, and enlarged lymph nodes (ear, submandibular, etc.) are rarely noted.

However, if at this moment the baby gets sick with ARVI, the signs of allergic rhinitis will only intensify, the recovery period will be delayed and the effect of antiallergic drugs will decrease.

A severe manifestation of hay fever is bronchial asthma2, usually combined with allergic runny nose (rhinitis) and allergic conjunctivitis. Signs of pollen asthma are typical for asthma in general: attacks of suffocation, wheezing, wheezing, audible even at a distance, dry cough.

1Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane covering the back surface of the eyelids and the front surface of the eyeball. 2Bronchial asthma is a chronic infectious-allergic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract that occurs with attacks of suffocation.

The above-mentioned manifestations of hay fever may include headache, weakness, sweating, drowsiness, irritability and tearfulness, chills, fever, and increased fatigue.

Diagnostics

If you suspect an allergic disease in a child, first of all you should contact your pediatrician to rule out similar but not allergic diseases (ARVI, inflammation of the bronchi - bronchitis).

In case of an allergic disease, it is better to be examined and treated by an allergist-immunologist in a regional or large multidisciplinary children's medical institution.

Diagnosis of the disease consists of two stages. The first stage includes a thorough survey of parents about the child’s development, illnesses he has suffered, etc., then an examination of the child himself, laboratory methods for examining his blood, nasal mucus, etc.

The second stage is identifying the allergen, in this case a plant. It is best to carry it out in winter, after treatment and reduction (or absence of signs) of the disease. At this time, tests are carried out with allergenic substances, the content of specific protective proteins of the immune system (class E immunoglobulins) in the blood is determined.

All allergy testing methods can be performed on an outpatient basis. Admission to hospital is only required in case of an emergency, such as a severe attack of bronchial asthma.

Allergen tests

The simplest and most accessible method of identifying an allergen are prick tests and their variant in the form of a prick test. They are carried out only in winter, no earlier than ten days after the end of taking antiallergic drugs.

1Scarification - from. lat. scarification - scratching, cutting.

The technique is as follows: drops of various industrially prepared allergens are applied to the hands (forearms), and scratches or injections are made. The foreign substance enters the body through damaged skin, and after 20 minutes doctors assess the size of the blisters that have formed at the site of the scratches. The “culprit” allergen will cause the largest blister to form.

Such tests are only possible for children over 5 years of age, since young patients cannot sit still for 20 minutes while the tests last.

An alternative method for identifying the causative allergen is a blood test to determine the content of specific protective proteins of the immune system (class E immunoglobulins) produced in response to a particular pollen.

This method can be carried out year-round, regardless of the child’s condition and the treatment used for another disease, and is the only method that identifies the source of allergies in young children.

In general, an allergy examination of a patient with hay fever p
Attention, TODAY only!

medovgur.ru

Allergies in children in the spring are a very common occurrence. Sneezing and a runny nose in a baby causes concern among parents, and they immediately begin treatment. Having made the diagnosis herself, the worried mother begins giving cold medicine. And the cause of coughing or sneezing may be seasonal allergies. Therefore, it is necessary to learn to distinguish colds from allergic manifestations.

Seasonal allergies mean a disease that occurs during some period of the year. Another name for this type of allergy is hay fever. Seasonal allergies are officially recognized as a disease that negatively affects productivity, school performance and can cause serious complications in the form of bronchial asthma. Most patients experience spring allergies.

Starting from the spring flowering period, a large amount of pollen from various plants and trees is released into the air. For allergy sufferers, spring becomes a real challenge. They cannot walk or sleep freely, and young patients become capricious, restless, and eat poorly, which worries parents even more. Flowering begins in mid or late April. During the warm season, the flowering of some plants ends and the period of others begins. Therefore, the concentration of allergens can be maintained in the air for a long time.

What factors influence the occurrence of allergies?

Sometimes allergies can appear in people who have never had one before. The occurrence of an allergic reaction in a child is influenced by:

• genetic predisposition;
• bacteriological and viral diseases;
• environmental degradation;
• artificial feeding;
• improper behavior of the mother during pregnancy;
• general health;
• lack of vitamin D.

With a genetic predisposition, the child is at risk from the same allergens as the parents. But kids can outgrow the allergic age. After 13 years, children’s immunity goes through a developing stage. If the parents followed the doctors' instructions, the disease may disappear. But the problem is that most parents may not know or remember which pollen they had a negative reaction to.

At first, the baby may be prone to an allergy to the pollen of a particular plant. This is called monoallergy. When there is no treatment, a reaction to other allergens occurs (polyallergy). For example, a child develops allergies to food, animal hair, household dust, and chemicals. Clothes washed with powder can cause rashes on the baby's body.

The presence of bacteriological and viral diseases weakens the immunity of children, so they need to be treated on time so that other ailments do not develop. Doctors recommend not switching to artificial feeding unless necessary, as this doubles the risk of seasonal allergies. Breast milk contains many beneficial substances that strengthen the body of children, which increases resistance to disease.

During pregnancy, a woman must monitor her diet and routine. You should not overuse certain foods, as they most often cause allergies. Such products include chocolate, nuts, halva, honey, citrus fruits. The expectant mother should avoid foods that contain preservatives, flavors, and dyes. It is unacceptable to smoke and abuse alcohol.

Which trees are dangerous for children?

Any tree or plant can become dangerous for a child. But there are trees whose pollen most often annoys people. Birch comes first. In addition, allergies can be caused by:

• alder;
• maple;
• hazel;
• ash;
• Apple tree;
• apricot;
• cherries;
• ambrosia;
• sagebrush;
• pine.

The condition of allergy sufferers during flowering vegetation is worsened by weather factors. When it rains, pollen settles and its concentration in the air decreases sharply. In windy, dry weather the reverse process occurs. The wind carries microparticles of flowers to areas where there is no park area.

To make it easier to determine which allergen causes a reaction in the baby, the mother needs to observe what foods she is allergic to even before the flowering period. For example, if a baby has an allergic reaction to fruit puree or juice, then these are prerequisites for the occurrence of hay fever. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that fruits and pollen contain identical protein molecules.

Such a connection is observed between alder and carrots, melon and dandelion, citrus fruits and some types of daisies. If a child has an allergy after eating plum jam, then a walk through a birch grove can cause a cough and runny nose. Avoid apple blossom areas if your child cannot eat kiwi or potatoes. If you are allergic to halva and honey, dandelions and wormwood pose a danger.

Manifestations of seasonal allergies

Symptoms of hay fever vary depending on the stage of the disease, age and health status of the little patient. The main signs of the disease are:

• runny nose with clear discharge;
• swelling of the nasopharynx;
• lacrimation;
• redness of the eyes;
• insomnia;
• itching and burning in the nose (the child rubs his nose);
• allergic conjunctivitis;
• rashes on various parts of the body;
• dry skin;
• irritability;
• lack of appetite;
• slight increase in body temperature (rare).

These signs may also be accompanied by stuffy ears, hyperactivity, coughing, and sneezing. Skin rashes usually appear on the stomach, groin, and between the fingers. Insomnia as a symptom appears when the baby has a stuffy nose and cannot breathe. Breathing may be impaired with the development of bronchial asthma. In this case, treatment must be started immediately.

An allergist will help diagnose the disease. Diagnostic measures include skin tests for allergens and blood tests for antibodies. No tests are carried out during the flowering period. During the examination, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all manifestations of allergies that the child may have had before, but have passed. Since there is a connection between hay fever and food allergies, reactions to certain foods may persist in winter. For example, if you were allergic to buckwheat pollen in the summer, then the reaction to honey collected during this period may persist in the winter.

How is hay fever treated?

Treatment of spring allergies in children requires a serious approach. An advanced disease will lead to complications that may affect the future. All that is required is to avoid contact with allergens. This is easier to do if you have a food allergy. It is enough to remove foods to which you have a reaction from your diet. But in the case of a pollen allergy, this cannot be done.

Therefore, doctors prescribe antihistamines. These can be drops, syrups or tablets. The dose is set individually depending on the age and weight of the baby. For skin rashes, antiallergic gels are used, and for allergic rhinitis, nasal drops that have a vasoconstrictor effect are used.

Children may be advised to take vitamin D, probiotics, and immune-boosting medications. In addition to treatment, parents should take certain measures to reduce the manifestations of the disease. In order not to aggravate the child’s condition, it is necessary to get rid of pets (cats, dogs). Don't get fish or parrots instead. Bird feathers are also allergens.

The baby's room should always be clean. Remove household dust daily. You should not cover the floor in the room with carpet. Pillows should be synthetic, not feather. Wash your baby's clothes with soap without additives or strong odors. Remove all plants from the children's room.

Additional Reminders for Parents

Walking will have to be shortened or taken after rain. You should not walk in parks or through heavily polluted areas.

If possible, change your place of residence during flowering.

Some parents take their children from big cities to the sea. When driving a car, close the windows.

Set a routine for your child. Let him go to bed and get up at the same time. Ensure drinking regime. Water procedures are important during such a period. Rinse your baby every 2 hours. By following these measures, you can significantly influence the patient’s condition.

ProAllergiju.ru

While healthy children enjoy the warm sun and collect bouquets of spring flowers, children with allergies suffer from painful symptoms of hay fever.

Causes of allergies in spring

Hay fever is a seasonal (spring) allergic reaction of the body to flowering plants.

The cause of allergies in the spring is the penetration of allergens into the child’s body.

Plant pollen gets on the skin, the mucous membrane of the eyes and respiratory tract (nose, larynx). Penetrating into the body, allergens irritate the immune system, promote the production of antibodies, and the release of histamine and other biologically active substances into the blood. As a result, symptoms of hay fever appear.

What is the source of spring allergies?

More than 100 types of plant allergens can cause an allergic reaction! Most often, allergies occur to the spring flowering of trees, shrubs, and flowers. For example, in April walnut, oak, alder, birch bloom, in May - poplar, linden, apple tree, dandelions, coltsfoot. From spring to autumn, quinoa, ragweed, and wormwood bloom.

Symptoms of spring allergies in a child

The most common symptoms of spring allergies in a child:

• Swelling and nasal congestion;
• Frequent sneezing;
• Itching and burning in the nose;
• Clear and liquid discharge from the nose;
• Itching, irritation, redness of the eyes;
• lacrimation;
• Swelling of the eyelids;
• Photophobia, frequent blinking;
• Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath;
• Cough;
• Rashes, redness, swelling, itching of the skin;
• Dryness, flaking of the skin;
• Moodiness and irritability;
• Drowsiness or insomnia;
• Lack of appetite.

How to distinguish an allergy from an acute respiratory disease?

1. Allergies are almost never accompanied by an increase in body temperature;
2. Symptoms of spring allergies appear annually at approximately the same time;
3. A child suffering from allergies feels much better at home. His health worsens on the street, especially when surrounded by flowering plants - in the park, in the forest. For a patient with an acute respiratory infection, the location does not matter;
4. The well-being of a child with allergies worsens on a dry and warm day, improves in rainy weather;
5. Nasal discharge is thick and thin, as opposed to the thick, cloudy discharge associated with a viral or bacterial infection;
6. In case of allergies, the cough is not accompanied by sputum production;
7. The acute respiratory infection lasts no more than a week. Symptoms of hay fever may appear over several spring and summer months;
8. If you notice that your child has allergies in the spring, consult a doctor immediately. Timely prevention and treatment of hay fever will help make you feel better and prevent the progression of the disease.

Treatment of allergies to spring blooms

The choice of treatment for hay fever depends on the stage of the disease and the flowering season of the plants causing the allergic reaction.

A month before the start of the flowering season, specific immunotherapy is carried out - antibodies that cause symptoms of hay fever are removed from the child’s body;

During the flowering period, drugs are used that protect the body from the effects of allergens and relieve allergy symptoms: Antihistamines;

1. Antihistamines;
2. Local hormonal agents (ointments and creams);
3. Non-hormonal antiallergic drugs.

Important! Only a doctor should prescribe medications for the prevention and treatment of allergies in a child!

• Close windows and doors to prevent pollen from flowering plants from entering the premises. Instead of ventilating, use an air purifier;
• Frequently do wet cleaning of premises;
• Minimize walks in dry, windy weather;
• Frequently wash the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes, take a shower - to remove pollen from flowering plants from the body;
• Dry bedding and clothes indoors to avoid pollen getting on things.

schoolofcare.ru
Trees and shrubs:

birch, alder, hazel or hazel, oak, maple, poplar, ash, elm and others.

Birch– the most common cause of seasonal allergies. Has very volatile pollen. The season for allergic reactions to birch begins before the snow has melted - in March, April or May, depending on how cold, long and snowy the winter is. In windy weather, pollen can spread tens of kilometers. There are a lot of birch trees in our country, so it is almost impossible to eliminate the allergen from life.

Alder– the second most common allergen.

The tricky thing about shrubs is that they are difficult to identify until the leaves have appeared; for example, it is difficult to distinguish a hazel from an alder.

Cereals and meadow grasses: rye, wheat, timothy, fescue, bluegrass, wheatgrass, bromegrass, buckwheat and others.

The tricky thing about allergenic herbs is that not many people know what these herbs look like.

Allergies can also be caused by ordinary lawn grass. If you don't mow the lawn on time, the grass will bloom and begin to gather dust. Lawns can become dusty several times a year. The juice of freshly cut grass, if it comes into contact with human skin, can also cause an allergic reaction, which is expressed in the form of hives.

Weeds : wormwood, quinoa, dandelion, ragweed, hemp, nettle, buttercup and others.

Dandelions- very allergenic. They have heavy pollen, so for a reaction to occur, you need close contact with the allergen, for example, putting a wreath of dandelions on your head or burying your face in a flower.

Sagebrush- quite allergenic. Grows along ditches and abandoned places.

Mold fungi. They are found in rotten leaves, in potatoes, and in damp rooms. “If a child has an allergic reaction to mold fungi, then the rustling of fallen leaves, which children love so much, will lead to a stuffy nose, cough, and itchy eyes.”- said Nadezhda Magarina.

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The protective reaction of the immune system to various types of irritants is called seasonal allergies or hay fever. It most often manifests itself in the warm season and manifests itself in the form of rhinitis and conjunctivitis, in some on the skin, and in more severe cases, bronchial asthma occurs.

Causes of seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies in spring are a common disease that affects approximately every fifth person on our planet.

This type of allergy, like others, is provoked by the influence of various allergens, which enter the body through food, air and water and cause an allergic reaction.

The main causes of seasonal allergies have been identified not so long ago. It was believed that the main factor causing hay fever was genetic predisposition. This is a true statement, but scientists have found that allergies can be inherited, this statement is confirmed by statistics:

1. Mothers suffering from hay fever give birth to children with allergies in 30% of cases;
2. In about a quarter of cases, patients with seasonal allergies inherited this disease on their father's side.
3. In half of the cases, children born from parents suffering from hay fever also suffer from allergies.

But there are situations when the disease first appeared in adulthood, in which case the main causes of seasonal allergies to a specific reaction of the immune system are:

1. 1. The disease can develop due to the presence of other allergic diseases. For example, in people who have had an intolerance to a certain type of food, medicine, etc. for many years;
   2. Deterioration of the ecological state of the environment;
   3. Bronchial diseases;
   4. Various factors of production;
   5. Weakened immunity due to infectious diseases;
   6. Seasonal allergies to flowers. The main “culprits” of allergies include the following trees and plants: birch, alder, ash, walnut, linden, willow, cypress, maple, elm, hazel, plane tree, oak, wormwood and ragweed.

Main symptoms of seasonal allergies

It is possible to identify the symptoms of seasonal allergies at the initial stage of development of the disease. The main thing is to consult a doctor in time, because only he knows how to treat seasonal allergies.

Main allergy symptoms:

1. Pollen asthma, difficulty breathing, with attacks of suffocation, shortness of breath;
2. Cough due to seasonal allergies;
3. Conjunctivitis and tearing;
4. Rhinitis and rhinosinusitis;
5. Itching in the nose area, accompanied by sneezing;
6. Nasal congestion, difficulty breathing;
7. Hoarseness of voice, change in timbre;
8. Atopic dermatitis;
9. Light nasal discharge with a liquid consistency;
10. Ear pain;
11. Headache, increased body temperature;

Not every allergy sufferer has bronchospastic manifestations, but statistics show that in 30% of cases, patients with exacerbation of allergies in the past seasons had asthmatic attacks. The most dangerous consequence of bronchospasm is Quincke's edema, which develops very quickly and requires emergency medical attention.

Definition of seasonal allergies

As a rule, the determination of the causative agent of hay fever in adults is based on an examination of the patient by a doctor. Together with taking an anamnesis, diagnosing allergies is carried out by taking allergy tests to determine the causative agent of the body's allergic reaction. There are several ways to determine the allergen:

1. The level of immunoglobulin E concentration in the blood is determined. When it increases, the body produces specific antibodies against allergens. To carry out the test, about 200 allergens are used, thus identifying the pathogens that cause the formation of group E immunoglobulins and are responsible for allergies.
2. Provocative tests. The suspected allergen is introduced and if an allergic reaction occurs, then the pathogen can be considered specific.
3. Skin tests. The allergen is introduced in a small amount, the result of the allergic reaction can be assessed after 20 minutes.

All allergy tests, with the exception of immunological analysis of blood serum, are carried out regardless of the time of exacerbation and the flowering season of plants.

Diagnosis of seasonal allergies takes place in several stages:

1. General clinical examination - sputum and blood tests are taken.
2. Examination of the nasal sinuses and bronchopulmonary system.
3. Carrying out specific allergy tests outside the palination season.
4. Consultations with a dermatologist, immunologist, otolaryngologist and pulmonologist.

Seasonal allergies in pregnant women

Seasonal allergies during pregnancy occur with the same symptoms as in other patients. The main thing is that treatment for pregnant women takes place under the constant supervision of a doctor and maximum elimination of the provoking factor.

Monitoring by an allergist is needed to reduce the risk of possible development of various pathologies in the baby, because if the mother coughs or has a stuffy nose, fetal hypoxia may occur. In expectant mothers, seasonal allergies are much more severe. Treatment of hay fever in pregnant women is specific. Today, various methods of treating allergies are known, safe drugs for seasonal allergies that do not affect the course of pregnancy and fetal development. In most cases, sprays are prescribed to treat allergies. However, the simplest and most complication-free way is elimination, that is, refusal of contact with the provoking factor.

Seasonal allergies, treatment

Seasonal allergies to flowering are often prevented by observing the necessary hygiene rules and avoiding contact with the allergen that provokes the allergic reaction. But in situations where these measures do not bring a positive effect, the doctor prescribes special medications.

Treatment of seasonal allergies in adults proceeds in the following sequence:

1. 1. Take prescribed medications;
   2. Complete elimination or maximum reduction of contact with the pathogen;
   3. Conducting allergen-specific therapy. This therapy reduces the patient's sensitivity to the allergen. It is carried out in the following way: the allergen that provokes the disease is introduced in small quantities, thereby accustoming your immune system to its effects. After six months of this procedure, the patient can completely get rid of allergies.

The main thing during therapy is to follow the following procedures:

1. In hot and windy weather, you need to cover the windows with gauze;
2. Do not spend much time outdoors during exacerbation of the disease;
3. When the air temperature outside is elevated, you need to close the windows;
4. When driving a car, do not open the windows, you can only use the air conditioning;
5. After washing, dry laundry in the apartment, not on the balcony;
6. Do not eat foods that cause cross-reactions;
7. After walking outside, you need to take a shower or bath;
8. It is necessary to install filters in the room to purify the air;
9. Wear sunglasses;
10. Do not apply a lot of cosmetics to your skin;
11. Do not walk near places where many plants bloom;

When the first symptoms of an allergy appear, you cannot immediately treat yourself, as you can harm your health and life. In order to find out how to get rid of seasonal allergies, it is recommended to consult with an allergist, who will draw up an individual treatment regimen for a certain period of time, which will help completely or partially eliminate the symptoms of the disease.

Considering the symptoms of allergies, various forms of medications are used:

1. Tablets for seasonal allergies;
2. Eye drops for seasonal allergies;
3. Sprays for seasonal allergies;
4. Solutions for seasonal allergies;
5. Inhalations and external remedies for seasonal allergies.

The drugs are based on chemicals with sedative and antihistamine properties. Potent drugs contain glucocorticosteroid hormones that relieve inflammation and prevent infection.

The following types of medications are used to treat allergies.

Effective medications for seasonal allergies

Many people prefer the oral route of taking medications because it is a more convenient method and the tablets are usually taken once a day, they do not affect the central nervous system and do not affect sleep.

The most effective remedies for seasonal allergies:

1. Suprastin does not cause cardiotoxic effects, does not accumulate in the blood, long-term use is possible. Disadvantage – short-term and sedative effect;
2. Diazolin is an antihistamine for the treatment of allergic dermatoses;
3. Akrivastine is a drug for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, hay fever, allergic dermatitis;
4. Chlorphenamine;
5. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that is almost not metabolized in the body and penetrates well into the skin, making it effective for skin diseases. Analogue drugs - cetrin, zyrtec, zodak, letizen, parlazine, cetirizine;
6. Azelastine is an antihistamine, antiallergic agent, reduces capillary permeability, and is used in the treatment of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.;
7. Ebastine;
8. Norastemizole;
9. Fexofenadine is a metabolite of terfenadine, an antihistamine that is considered safe and effective in the treatment of allergies. Contraindicated in children under 6 years of age. Analogue drugs - Telfast, Fexofast, Fexadin.
10. Loratadine, desloratadine - suitable for children and adults, safe, available from pharmacies without a prescription. The sedative effect is minimal, does not affect cardiac and psychomotor activity, is well tolerated and interacts with other drugs. Analogue drugs - Clarisens, Lomilan, Loragexal, Cloratadine, Claritin, Desloratadine Teva, Erius, Lordestin, Dezal.

Sprays for seasonal allergies:

1. Flixonase is a drug that has antiallergic and anti-inflammatory effects;
2. Avamis - has an anti-allergic effect 2 hours after use. The drug may have side effects - dry nasal mucosa, increased thirst and nosebleeds.
3. Nasonex is a steroid drug that can be used in children. 3 injections into each nasal passage are enough to alleviate your condition for a day.
4. Allergodil is a non-hormonal drug that can be used 2-4 weeks before the first signs of an allergic reaction appear. The body will be able to strengthen the immune system and prepare for exposure to allergens. Can be used for long-term therapy; approximately 30 minutes after use, Allergodil has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Eye drops for seasonal allergies

To treat conjunctival symptoms of allergies, two groups of drugs are used:

1. Antihistamines
2. Mast cell stabilizers

Eye drops are prescribed by a doctor for monotherapy and in complex therapy. For the treatment of a chronic disease, sodium cromogicate is prescribed. Such drugs include:

• Cromohexal is an effective drug for treating the symptoms of the disease and does not cause burning or irritation of the eyes.
• Alomide is a histamine-inducing agent that helps restore the cornea of ​​the eye.
• For the treatment of acute allergic conjunctivitis, the following drugs are used: Allergodil and Spersallerg. These drops relieve symptoms within 15 minutes and last for 6 hours.

Drops also have a positive effect on inflammation in the eyes:

1. 1. Ifiral;
   2. Lecrolin;
   3. Allergokrom;
   4. High-chrome;
   5. Irtan.