Allergies: How they can affect you, and how can they be treated?
Written in association with:
Published: 09/03/2017
Edited by: Jay Staniland
Seasonal allergies affect up to 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives, with hay fever being the most common allergy. Pollen is one of the largest contributing factors to seasonal allergies, and is one of the most common allergens in the country.
When are seasonal allergies at their worst?
Spring is the time of year in the UK when more people are affected by allergies, with the pollen count being at its highest during this period, however seasonal allergies affect sufferers from the end of March until September, and can even start as early as January, or continue as late as November in some cases.
The profile of an allergic person has changed in recent years. Where previously patients suffered an allergy to one type of pollen, now many suffer reactions to various types of particles.
Seasonal allergies: what are the effects?
Allergic people are those who suffer adverse reactions when inhaling, ingesting or touching certain substances called allergens. The symptoms of an allergy are usually rhinitis (nasal allergy), conjunctivitis (eye allergy) and skin disorders such as itching, inflammation, burning, rashes, scaling, and blisters, among others. On the skin, allergies may result in skin lesions.
The most common manifestations are optic dermatitis, urticaria, angioedema, and allergic contact dermatitis.
Causes and treatment of seasonal allergies
The most common allergens are dust mites, pollen, some foods (eggs, chocolate, seafood, peach, etc.) and chemicals such as chlorine, dyes, latex or detergents. Also other factors, such as some medications, stress or even the sun can produce an allergic reaction on the skin.
Allergic people should try to avoid contact with substances to which they are hypersensitive. In addition, they can use topical treatments with skin protection and dermatological oils, and general treatments with antihistamines. People with skin allergies should take extreme care of their skin, avoid contact with substances that are irritating and be sure to keep the skin well hydrated.