Pollen season is just around the corner, bringing runny noses and itchy eyes to millions of allergy sufferers.
But with pollen allergies being so common, many myths have emerged about what causes them, how to treat them, and how to minimize symptoms.
Let’s separate fact from fiction with these key points.
Climate change makes pollen allergies worse
Both true and false!
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While climate change doesn’t necessarily make allergy symptoms worse, it does extend the pollen season.
Milder winters mean plants release pollen earlier, and new plant species can take root, further prolonging exposure.
However, the intensity of symptoms largely depends on individual sensitivity rather than climate change itself.
Rain washes away pollen
Fact!
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Rain can help clear the air of pollen by making the particles heavier, preventing them from spreading.
However, not all rain is beneficial – light rain is best.
Heavy rain or thunderstorms can actually break pollen into smaller particles, making them easier to inhale and potentially worsening symptoms.
Pollen levels are higher in rural areas than in cities
Myth!
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Pollen concentration depends more on local vegetation than whether an area is urban or rural.
A city park with many birch trees may have higher birch pollen levels than a countryside field with fewer trees.
Allergy sufferers should check local pollen counts and be aware of the plants in their surroundings.
Pollen allergies always start in childhood
Both true and false!
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While pollen allergies often develop in teenage years, they can start at any age – even in adulthood.
It’s less common for very young children to have pollen allergies, but it’s not impossible. The timing varies from person to person.
Hay fever causes an actual fever
Myth!
Despite its name, hay fever doesn’t cause a rise in body temperature.
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The symptoms – runny nose, sneezing, and congestion – can resemble a cold or flu, but a key difference is the color of nasal discharge.
Clear and watery mucus usually indicates allergies, whereas thick and yellow mucus suggests an infection.
You should delay treatment to avoid becoming dependent
Myth!
Waiting to start treatment can actually make symptoms worse.
If allergies go untreated, persistent nasal congestion can lead to mouth breathing, which increases the risk of respiratory issues.
Experts recommend starting antihistamines as soon as symptoms appear and, in some cases, even before the season begins.
Wearing sunglasses can reduce symptoms
Fact!
Sunglasses act as a barrier, preventing pollen from reaching the eyes and reducing irritation.
Wraparound sunglasses offer even better protection. While this won’t eliminate symptoms entirely, it can help minimize eye-related discomfort.
Pollen allergies can develop into asthma
Fact!
If left untreated, pollen allergies can lead to more severe respiratory problems, including allergic asthma.
Persistent exposure to allergens without proper management can increase the risk of developing asthma-like symptoms, making it crucial to seek the right treatment early on.
Staying indoors prevents exposure to pollen
Both true and false!
While staying inside can reduce exposure, pollen can still enter homes through open windows, on clothing, and even on pets.
Using air purifiers and keeping windows closed during peak pollen hours can help minimize exposure, but it’s not a foolproof solution.
Honey can cure pollen allergies
Myth!
There’s no scientific evidence that eating honey can cure or significantly reduce pollen allergies.
While honey contains traces of pollen, it’s usually from flowers, not the wind-pollinated trees and grasses that cause most allergies.
Effective treatment options include antihistamines, nasal sprays, and immunotherapy.
This article is based on information from Netdoktor.