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Sneezing, stuffy nose, red eyes. For allergy sufferers, the spring period is one of those at risk. Giorgio Walter Canonica, Director of the Personalized Medicine Center for Asthma and Allergology – Humanitas Clinical Institute in Milan, confirms this starting from a study promoted by Assosalute. The analysis took into consideration the most “disturbing” symptoms for allergy sufferers: in first place there are sneezing, of which 51% of respondents complain, followed by eye discomfort (46%), stuffy nose (36%), lacrimation (35%) and nasal drip (31%). Cough (23%) and fatigue (14%) follow.
We do not leave the masks
“Those who suffer from forms of allergy suffer from it almost everywhere, both in the open air and at home, also in consideration of the fact that at least 75% of patients over the age of 18 are sensitive and that is affected by the action more allergens. – says Canonica. In light of the ongoing pandemic, there is good news for allergy sufferers that they have proven to be less susceptible to infection by the Coronavirus. The immunological mechanism that determines the allergy has a decreasing effect of Coronavirus receptors on the cells of the respiratory mucous membranes. However, this does not imply a consequent exemption from the use of the mask and from other practices aimed at protecting themselves from the virus by subjects suffering from allergic rhinitis. Rather, the use of masks it has proven to be effective as a mechanical barrier for less pollen inhalation, and therefore less discomfort for outdoor allergy sufferers “.
In any case, social distancing and staying at home for longer times also change the “dynamics” of allergies. More than pollen, which is always present, staying at home tends to increase exposure to dust and humidity. “We spend much more time in a confined (indoor) environment than we did previously – continues the expert. This has been accentuated by the pandemic, with an increase in exposure to allergens in the home, such as mites or certain molds. In recent years we have observed an increase in indoor allergies partly attributable to coexistence with some pets (mainly cats and then dogs) that do not help those suffering from respiratory allergies and that can lead to allergic rhinitis. “
Conversely, the shorter time spent outdoors means a reduced exposure to pollen, also decreased by the use of masks. Furthermore, the restrictions imposed with differential forms of lockdown have marked a lowering of pollution levels: “This – comments Canonica – has led to a consequent decrease in the insult to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract resulting from the quality of the air: another positive factor for those suffering from respiratory allergies, even if it could only be a temporary situation ”.
How to behave?
There are few countermeasures that can be adopted against allergies outside the home, as these vary according to the climate. The few precautions – in addition to the masks that are worn – are to avoid going out in the early hours of the day, when the pollination is more intense, and if you travel by car, it is advisable to remember to clean the filters to limit exposure as much as possible.
On the other hand, it is at home that virtuous behaviors can make a difference: ventilate often and in the right moments of the day, the rooms to balance humidity levels, clean frequently and thoroughly to eliminate as much dust, mites and pollen as possible that settle especially on carpets and rugs are undoubtedly effective actions to improve the quality of life of an allergic person.
For allergy sufferers it is important to use drugs such as antihistamines, to be taken orally or nasally, or antiallergic sprays that can be used in the treatment of hay fever with decongestant action.
Finally, Canonica also recommends the use of second generation antihistamines that do not cause drowsiness: not having sedative effects, these drugs are able to guarantee good work and school performance, allowing normal daily activities to be carried out. But be careful: this attitude should be taken if the disturbances are occasional. In the most serious forms it is essential to develop the optimal approach with the doctor.
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