[2023 "China Science Popularization Star Creation Competition"] How much do you know about autumn pollen allergies?

Author of the winning works of the 2023 "China Science Popularization Star Creation Competition": Xie Jiarong

Autumn is a season of harvest and a great time to go out and play, but autumn pollen allergy is one of the common allergy symptoms for many people in autumn. Pollen allergy is caused by the body's allergic reaction to pollen protein. When pollen enters the human respiratory tract, the immune system recognizes it as a foreign substance and releases a large amount of chemicals such as histamine, leading to allergic symptoms.

What are the common pollen allergens?

In autumn, common pollen allergens mainly include poplar, elm, mugwort, wormwood, etc. These plants release a large amount of pollen in autumn, which can easily cause pollen allergies.

People who are prone to pollen allergies mainly include the following categories:

1. First, people who already have a history of other allergies or a family history of hereditary allergies;

2. The second group is people with weak or hyperactive immune systems;

3. There are also people who are exposed to the pollen environment for a long time, such as farmers, gardeners, etc.

What are the main symptoms of pollen allergy:

Pollen allergy often manifests itself in symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, and coughing.

To prevent pollen allergies, you can take the following measures:

1. Minimize outdoor activities when pollen concentrations are high;

2. Keep the air clean indoors by using an air purifier or opening windows for ventilation during pollen-free hours;

3. Wearing a mask, hat and sunglasses when going out can reduce exposure to pollen.

4. It is also best to hang clothes indoors to avoid bringing pollen into the room;

5. Usually you should strengthen physical exercise, improve your physical fitness and prevent cold;

1. First, wash your face and eyes in time to remove pollen attached to the skin and mucous membranes;

2. Secondly, use cold compresses or wet towels to relieve itching and redness;

3. In addition, avoid scratching your skin to prevent infection.

When you go out, you can carry some anti-allergy medicine with you:

1. Oral liquids commonly used to treat pollen allergies include antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine maleate (chlorpheniramine), loratadine, ephedrine and diphenhydramine tablets, which can relieve allergic symptoms.

2. Topical ointments: In addition to the above-mentioned treatment methods, patients can also use topical ointments for treatment as prescribed by the doctor. Commonly used ointments include fluocinolone acetonide cream, hydrocortisone butyrate ointment, etc.

In short, during the autumn pollen allergy season, we need to strengthen our awareness of the prevention and treatment of pollen allergies, avoid contact with allergens, strengthen physical exercise, and improve our own immunity. If pollen allergy occurs, we can take appropriate measures to alleviate discomfort and go to the hospital for treatment immediately if necessary.