Battling Birch tree allergies: symptoms, protection, and relief

During tree pollen season, allergies can be a concern. Birch trees are particularly problematic due to their potent allergenic pollen. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, so it is important to know how to protect yourself and find relief. This article will explore birch tree allergies, including their symptoms, and provide strategies for protection and relief.

Recognising the symptoms

Birch tree pollen is a common trigger for allergic rhinitis, often known as hay fever, and can cause a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose, making everyday tasks feel more challenging.

• Itchy, watery eyes that can be particularly bothersome, affecting your ability to focus and enjoy outdoor activities.

• Itchy skin or hives, which are red, raised, itchy bumps on the skin.

• In some cases, asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing may also be exacerbated.

Steps for protection

Stay informed

Keep track of pollen forecasts, especially during the high tree pollen season. Many weather websites and apps provide this information, helping you plan your outdoor activities when pollen counts are lower.

Limit exposure

• Close windows in your home and car to prevent pollen from entering.

• When outdoors, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen.

• After spending time outside, change and wash your clothes and take a shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.

Create a pollen barrier

Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly around the nostrils can trap pollen, preventing it from entering your nasal passages.

Finding relief

Allergy medicine

Over-the-counter allergy meds can provide significant relief. Allergy pills containing antihistamines can reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose, while allergy nasal sprays can help with nasal congestion. For eye symptoms, allergy drops are available.

Prescription options

For those with more severe symptoms, prescription nose sprays and other stronger medications may be necessary. These often include corticosteroids that can effectively reduce inflammation and allergic reactions.

Saline solutions

Saline nasal sprays and washes can help clear pollen from the nasal passages, offering a natural form of relief. These can be used as often as needed and are particularly useful for cleansing the nasal passages before applying medicated sprays.

Immunotherapy

For long-term relief, allergen immunotherapy, which gradually exposes your body to more significant amounts of birch pollen to build up tolerance can be considered. This treatment usually requires a commitment over several years but can lead to lasting relief from allergy symptoms.

Consulting with professionals

If you’re struggling to manage your birch pollen allergy symptoms, consulting with an allergy company like Airyn specialising in allergies can provide you with tailored allergy treatment plans. They can offer advice on the best allergy medicine and strategies to minimise exposure and discomfort.

Conclusion

Birch tree allergies can make spring and early summer less enjoyable. However, with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect yourself and find relief from the symptoms. You can manage birch tree allergy symptoms by staying informed about pollen counts, limiting exposure, and seeking effective allergy relief through medications and treatments. Remember, you don't have to suffer in silence; help is available to make the tree pollen season more bearable