Birch causes symptoms for most hay fever sufferers, followed by the early bloomers hazel and alder. Which helps make pollen season more bearable.
"Luckily it's supposed to rain tomorrow, so the pollen will simply be washed away." The assumption that the symptoms of pollen allergy are less noticeable in rainy weather is unfortunately a fallacy - in fact, it can make hay fever even worse. Because when it rains, the pollen count is higher, and heavy rain and thunderstorms in particular contribute to worsening symptoms for allergy sufferers. However, those suffering from hay fever can make the pollen season a little more bearable thanks to tips and tricks.
Pollen allergy: When are the symptoms most severe?
More than 20 percent of children and over 30 percent of adults develop at least one allergic disease over the course of their lives, according to the
Robert Koch Institute (RKI)
. One of these is pollen allergy, triggered, for example, by the flowering hazel bush or the fine, white-yellow dust of the birch tree.
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The amount and concentration of pollen and allergenic substances can vary greatly and depend on various factors such as temperature, weather, wind and air pollutants. Nitrogen oxides and ozone can increase the amount of pollen and increase their effects. Trees normally release more pollen in the morning and midday. However, the pollen concentration varies depending on the location: in rural areas it is higher in the morning and midday, while in urban areas it increases in the evening, as the
German Allergy and Asthma Association (DAAB)
explains. Accordingly, the symptoms of those affected can be most severe in the morning or evening hours. Outside cities, rooms should therefore be ventilated in the evening and within the city in the morning.
Allergy to pollen: what can relieve symptoms?
It is practically impossible to completely protect yourself from pollen, as it can get into your own four walls through the wind, clothing and hair. However, there are useful tips and tricks to best reduce symptoms during the pollen season:
Keep clothes worn during the day and outside outside the bedroom. Ideally, do not change your worn clothes in the bedroom.
During the peak pollen season, wash your hair thoroughly with water almost every day or wipe it well with a damp washcloth to remove pollen.
Use vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter system to reduce fine dust and allergenic particles.
On days with heavy pollen counts, corona masks and large sunglasses can minimize contact with the allergens and thus minimize symptoms.
When driving, you should keep the windows closed as much as possible.
Change the pollen filter in the car ventilation system at least once a year.
Install pollen screens on your windows at home.
Use air purification devices to filter pollen allergens from the air.
Rinse your nose with isotonic saline solution during the day and evening to clean the mucous membranes and make breathing easier.
Anti-allergic medications such as tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops can further relieve symptoms.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.