While spring is just around the corner, allergy sufferers have little to look forward to—quite the opposite, in fact. The most common symptoms during this season include itchy skin, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing. Many also experience conjunctivitis, as well as fever, fatigue, and exhaustion. According to surveys, two-thirds of Czechs find allergies significantly bothersome. Across Europe, up to 150 million people contend with this unpleasant condition. For comparison, about 30% of the population in Germany undergoes treatment for allergies, while nearly half of the population in the UK is affected.

Allergies are not a trivial condition

"Allergy is essentially an excessive response from the immune system. Many people mistake it for a cold in the early stages, which is why most patients seek specialized allergy testing late. Typical symptoms include skin redness, itching of the skin and eyes, and swelling. I strongly advise against ignoring allergies - in severe cases, they can lead to life-threatening conditions such as anaphylactic shock," warns Dr. Martin Hospodka, Head of Allergology and Immunology at Canadian Medical. He adds, "Family history also plays a crucial role. If both parents have allergies, there is more than a 50% chance their child will develop them as well."

The most common allergies and allergens

• Pollen allergies (inhaled allergens): These usually occur in spring and summer when plants bloom, causing pollen to become airborne. Common sources include grasses, grains, shrubs, and trees. Flower pollen (except for dandelions) typically does not cause allergies.
• Dust mite and dust allergies: Dust mites thrive in mattresses, bed sheets, carpets, and curtains, especially in humid and poorly ventilated environments.
• Mold allergies: Molds also flourish in humid, unventilated spaces and can be found behind tiles, furniture, on food, or walls.
• Animal dander allergies: Most commonly triggered by dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, and exotic birds. Allergens can come from fur, skin, or saliva, with a significant amount found in cat saliva. Insect stings, such as those from bees and wasps, can also be strong allergy triggers.
• Food allergies: Certain foods can trigger allergic reactions, most commonly milk and dairy products, peanuts, fish, seafood, gluten, wheat, celery, soy, and eggs.
• Allergies to antibiotics and medications: Any medication can cause an allergic reaction, but antibiotics, barbiturates, and local anesthetics are the most common culprits. Allergies can be seasonal or year-round (chronic).

Pollen allergies are the most widespread

Pollen allergens easily enter the body and are responsible for inhalant allergies. Major sources of pollen include grasses, grains, trees, and herbs. "Pollen allergies enter the body through the respiratory system, and the severity depends on pollen concentration. These allergies can be particularly dangerous as they may develop into asthma. Fortunately, allergy tests can quickly diagnose the issue and allow us to begin treatment, which depends on the specific type and severity of the allergy," explains Dr. Martin Hospodka.

Prevention

The best prevention is to avoid allergens altogether, though this is not always possible. For dust and dust mite allergies, using nano-fiber bedding and air purifiers is recommended, as well as removing carpets and curtains. For mold allergies, frequent ventilation and maintaining proper humidity levels are essential; a hygrometer or dehumidifier can help. To reduce exposure to pollen allergies, wearing protective eyewear, washing hands and hair frequently (as pollen easily sticks to them), and changing clothes after returning home can be beneficial. If you or your child experience allergic reactions, a comprehensive allergy test can help identify the specific allergen and determine the appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Although genetic predisposition plays a significant role, lifestyle choices also influence allergy development. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet.