The Allergy Boom: Every second person affected by 2050 according to WHO
Allergies are becoming more prevalent, with climate change and rising temperatures worsening symptoms. People can experience various allergic reactions, such as dermatitis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2050, allergies will affect 50% of the global population, leading to an “allergic epidemic.” Particularly in urban areas, allergies are consistently on the rise due to an increase in temperature and air pollutants that exacerbate allergy symptoms.
While the “hygiene hypothesis” suggests that reduced exposure to microorganisms is one reason for the rise in allergies, pollution and poor air quality are also factors. Climate change has led to earlier plant blooming, causing a longer pollen season. Higher temperatures and ozone levels in the air can irritate the respiratory system, intensifying seasonal allergy symptoms. Around 40% of allergy sufferers also experience asthma, presenting with symptoms such as sneezing, nasal obstruction, itching, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. Vehicle pollution is another factor to consider.
If you suspect you have an allergy, seeking medical advice is crucial. A visit to a healthcare professional can help identify the cause of your allergy and recommend ways to prevent and manage symptoms. Nasal sprays are one option that may be recommended by a doctor or available over-the-counter at a pharmacy. These sprays can help protect against airborne allergens by blocking them from entering the nasal passage, reducing symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose. Some OTC nasal sprays are drug-free options that can help prevent exposure to allergens, which seems to be one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.
Alongside nasal sprays, there are various other preventive measures you can take to avoid allergens, such as wearing protective clothing and using air purifiers in the home. Identifying the allergen responsible for the clinical presentation is crucial in developing appropriate preventive measures and the most effective therapy.
Prevention is the best way to deal with allergies. Seeking medical advice, using drug-free options such as nasal sprays, and taking other preventive measures can help you control your symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
1en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygiene_hypothesis2Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). 2020 National Health Interview Survey Data. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/nhis/2020/data.htm
