Column by Kovbasko K.M. Seasonal Allergy

Seasonal allergy, or pollinosis, is an allergic disease that occurs due to increased sensitivity of the immune system to plant pollen. During contact with the allergen, the immune system mistakenly perceives it as a threat, leading to the development of allergic inflammation. 

In Ukraine, the pollen season is conditioned to be divided into three periods: 

• March–May — pollen from trees (hazel, alder, birch, oak, etc.); 
• May–July — pollen from meadow and cereal grasses; 
• August–October — pollen from weeds, primarily ragweed and wormwood. 

It is during these periods that symptoms of seasonal allergy usually exacerbate. 

Who is at a higher risk of developing pollinosis? 

Seasonal allergic rhinitis most often first manifests in children after 2–3 years of life, although it can debut at an older age. 

The risk is higher if: 

• the child or close relatives have allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis); 
• the child already has other manifestations of allergy; 
• there is regular contact with plant pollen. 

How does seasonal allergy manifest? 

The most characteristic symptoms include: 

• frequent sneezing; 
• itchiness in the nose; 
• watery nasal discharge; 
• nasal congestion; 
• itchiness, redness, and tearing of the eyes; 
• itchiness in the palate or ears; 
• sometimes — dry cough, especially when mucus drips down the back of the throat. 

In some children, pollinosis may be accompanied by exacerbation of bronchial asthma or the appearance of wheezing. 

How to distinguish allergy from a cold? 

Indicators in favor of allergy include: 

• absence of a fever; 
• good overall well-being; 
• watery nasal discharge without thick yellow or green mucus; 
• significant itchiness of the nose and eyes; 
• symptoms recurring every year around the same season; 
• well-being improves after rain, when in another region, or after the end of the pollen season. 

If a child develops high fever, severe sore throat, strong cough, or symptoms rapidly worsen, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician, as this may indicate an infectious disease. 

How is the diagnosis confirmed? 

The diagnosis is established by a physician based on symptoms, their seasonality, and examination results. 

If necessary, the following may be recommended: 

• skin prick tests; 
• detection of specific IgE in the blood for individual allergens. 

The extent of examination is determined individually by the doctor. 

How is seasonal allergy treated? 

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and is selected individually. 

Modern recommendations may include: 

• intranasal corticosteroids — first-line medications for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis; 
• second-generation antihistamines; 
• antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis; 
• nasal irrigation with saline solutions to reduce the amount of allergens on the mucosa. 

The only treatment method that affects the cause of the allergy is allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). It can significantly reduce the manifestations of the disease and the risk of developing bronchial asthma in children with appropriate indications. 

How to reduce contact with pollen? 

It is impossible to completely avoid contact with pollen, but its quantity can be reduced: 

• keep track of the pollen forecast; 
• on days of high pollen concentration, keep windows closed during the day; 
• after walks, change clothes and wash the child's face and hair; 
• rinse the nose with saline solutions; 
• do not dry clothes and bedding outside during active pollen periods. 

When should you urgently consult a doctor? 

Immediate medical attention is needed if: 

• the child is having difficulty breathing; 
• wheezing has appeared; 
• there is swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; 
• there are signs of anaphylaxis. 

The main thing 

Seasonal allergy is a common condition that can significantly worsen a child’s quality of life, but with modern approaches, it is well-controlled. Timely consultation with a doctor, correct diagnosis, and individually tailored treatment help the child remain active even during the pollen season.