Allergies in Spain during springtime

Allergies in Spain during spring time 

In Spain, the spring season brings about a surge in allergies, primarily due to the increased pollen levels in the air. The five main allergies that commonly arise during springtime in Spain are:

Pollen Allergy (Hay Fever)
Symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, fatigue.

Remedies:

• Avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen hours.
• Using air purifiers and keeping windows closed to minimize pollen exposure.
• For long-term solution, you can consider immunotherapy (allergy shots).
• Please contact your doctor before self-employing antihistamines and / or nasal corticosteroids.

Olive Tree Pollen Allergy
Symptoms: Similar to pollen allergies but exacerbated during the flowering season of olive trees (March to June).

Remedies:

• Similar remedies as for pollen allergies.
• Monitoring olive tree flowering seasons and adjusting outdoor activities accordingly.
• Consulting with an allergist for personalized treatment options.

Cypress Tree Pollen Allergy
Symptoms: Allergic rhinitis symptoms intensified during the flowering season of cypress trees (February to April).

Remedies:

• Similar remedies as for other pollen allergies.
• Minimizing exposure by staying indoors during peak pollen times.
• Using allergen-blocking nasal  masks when outdoor exposure is unavoidable.

Birch Pollen Allergy
Symptoms: Cross-reactivity with certain foods (oral allergy syndrome), in addition to typical hay fever symptoms, during birch pollen season (March to May).

Remedies:

• Avoiding raw fruits and vegetables that may trigger oral allergy syndrome.
• Allergen immunotherapy for severe cases.

Grass Pollen Allergy
Symptoms: Allergic rhinitis symptoms worsened during the grass pollen season (April to June).

Remedies:

• Similar remedies as for other pollen allergies.
• Minimizing outdoor activities in grassy areas during high pollen counts.
• Showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from the body.
• Nasal irrigation with saline solutions to flush out allergens from nasal passages.
• In addition to these remedies, it's crucial for individuals with allergies to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an allergist or immunologist, for personalized diagnosis and treatment plans. They can provide specific guidance tailored to individual needs and recommend appropriate medications or therapies to effectively manage allergy symptoms during the spring season in Spain.

Here an interview with a Sanitas specialist (Spanish):