Pollen allergy sufferers: wich type are you ?
It often begins with a slight irritation
of the nose, eyes and throat. In acute attacks, the hay fever becomes a
massive burden, affecting the sufferer's physical and mental
performance.
A permanent urge to sneeze, major bouts of sneezing, itchy and runny
nose, burning and watery eyes, increased light sensitivity, ear-ache,
discomfort when swallowing, dry coughs and even bronchial asthma are
all typical hay fever symptoms. They can push the sufferer to the edge
of exhaustion.
But what are the causes of this allergy, which at times is a mere inconvenience yet at others a major problem? A few simple criteria can help you to determine the causes of your own allergy (allergens). This knowledge can be very valuable in the treatment of the symptoms.
Tree allergy sufferers
They suffer mainly between February and May. Their allergens come from
birch, oak, ash, elder or hazel trees. Typical cross-reactions: Food
allergies such as nuts, and fruit which contain stones and pits.
Grass allergy sufferers
They suffer mainly between May and July. Their allergens come from
grasses or rye. Typical cross-reactions: Food allergies such as cereals
and pulses.
Herb allergy sufferers
They suffer mainly in high summer. Their allergens come from plants
like mugwort, plantain and nettles. Typical cross-reactions: Food
allergies such as spices, culinary herbs and celeriac.
A simple skin test can help to identify allergens. Carefully rub the flower of a suspect plant on the skin of the inner elbow - if the skin comes up in a red rash, this confirms your suspicions. Rare allergens however can only be identified by a comprehensive allergy test carried out by your doctor.
