Allergy is reported as the most common condition in the United Kingdom - research confirms that above 30% of people in the UK suffer from allergy (UK health indicators: 2019 to 2020). Although the problem is widespread, numerous allergic patients are not aware of potential consequences of an untreated allergy. At the same time, seasonal allergies are one of the most common types of allergic reactions.
To familiarize our readers with common allergy symptoms and ways of coping with this condition, we have talked to a person suffering from a seasonal allergy, who shared his views and tips with us. Our interlocutor was a young woman who is allergic to grass pollen. For private reasons, she did not want to reveal her personal data.
What type of allergy do you suffer from?
I am allergic to grass pollen, which is why I find it very difficult to function between May and August. These months are the peak season for grass pollen, so I can never enjoy the summer as much as I would like to. Trust me - allergy symptoms on holiday can be a real nightmare.
Nevertheless, I must admit I kind of got accustomed to it (laughing). My friends and family are extremely understanding and caring, so they are not surprised when I prefer to stay at home rather than spend time in a park!
How long have you suffered from allergy? How have you discovered it?
Oh, it is actually a very interesting question, because I had never suffered from any type of allergy - until three years ago, when I started to experience new, strange symptoms. I was constantly sneezing, I had conjunctivitis often, and I even experienced shortness of breath.
To be honest, I was really frightened, because the symptoms did not disappear and persisted for the whole summer. That is why I decided to consult a family doctor first, who suggested the symptoms might indicate a seasonal allergy. Then, I scheduled an allergist appointment and took laboratory tests. Of course, the results clearly indicated a seasonal allergy to grass pollen!
I live in a small village, so there are many more trees around than in the city. My symptoms
have become so intense, that I decided I have to start allergy treatment. Before I got the diagnosis, I didn’t even want to leave my house because of allergy signs.
What are your ways to cope with seasonal allergy symptoms?
Of course, as soon as I got the diagnosis, I started to take medications that fight allergy. Although the treatment has significantly improved my quality of life, I am still considering allergy desensitization - maybe I will start it next year.
During the grass pollen peak season, I also try to take care of myself on a daily basis - maybe it sounds trivial, but I wash my hands often, I use eye drops and try to avoid parks or other green places. What is more, I wear sunglasses to prevent pollen from getting to my eyes. I also supplement calcium in a liquid form. Of course, everyone needs to work out their own solutions and tips that are effective.
What would you recommend for those who suspect an allergy?
Well, the first step I would suggest is to take a rapid test. There are many tests available on the market - they take only a few minutes and are highly accurate. If the result is positive, a person who suspects an allergy should consult a specialist, of course. It may be a family doctor or an allergist - it is crucial to react quickly. There’s no use suffering for the whole season!
What is more, I suggest everyone who suffers from allergy-like symptoms to share their experience with others, for example on online forums or social media. Thanks to this kind of contribution, more and more people will be aware of allergy symptoms and the diagnostic process.
Thank you for your contribution! We hope you will experience very few allergy symptoms this season.
Thank you very much! It was a pleasure to talk to you. I do hope that the development of rapid testing will help in diagnosing allergies and raising awareness on this topic.