WHAT IS POLLEN ALLERGY?

what is pollen allergy

Pollen allergy, also known as pollinosis or hay fever, is one of the most widespread respiratory allergies. It affects millions of people every year, mainly in spring and summer, when plants release large quantities of pollen into the air. If not properly managed, this allergy can have a major impact on quality of life.

What is pollen?

Pollen is a fine powder produced by plants to ensure their reproduction. Carried by wind or insects, it easily penetrates the respiratory tract. In allergy sufferers, the immune system overreacts to these harmless particles.

The main allergenic pollens are :

  • Grass pollens (hay, grass)

  • Tree pollens (birch, cypress, olive)

  • Herbaceous pollens (ragweed, mugwort)

Symptoms of pollen allergy

Symptoms generally appear during the pollen season, and vary according to the individual's sensitivity.

The most common are

  • Repeated sneezing

  • Runny or congested nose

  • Itchy nose

  • Red, watery, irritated eyes

  • Dry cough

  • Fatigue

  • Breathing difficulties or asthma attacks in sensitive individuals

Even indoors, symptoms can persist, as pollen enters the home via clothing, hair and ventilation.

How does pollen allergy develop?

Pollen allergy develops when the immune system wrongly regards pollen as a threat. It then triggers an inflammatory reaction responsible for allergic symptoms. Sensitization can occur in childhood or adulthood.

Diagnosis of pollen allergy

Diagnosis is based on :

  • Precise medical questioning

  • Skin tests

  • Blood tests to measure specific IgE antibodies

Identifying the type of pollen in question enables preventive measures and treatment to be adapted.

How can I limit exposure to pollen at home?

Even if pollen comes from outside, the indoor environment plays a key role in managing symptoms.

1. Protect bedding from allergens

Pollen accumulates easily in bedding, pillows and mattresses. The use of dust mite covers is an effective solution for limiting exposure during sleep.

👉 On protechallergies.com, you'll find :

  • Anti-allergen covers for mattresses, pillows and comforters

  • Breathable textiles such as bamboo sheets designed to block allergens, including pollen

2. Improve indoor air quality

  • Air your home early in the morning or late at night

  • Use a air purifier with HEPA filter

  • Avoid opening windows during pollen peaks

  • Change your clothes and wash your hair when you come in from outside.

3. Adapt home maintenance

4. Use appropriate anti-allergenic products

The solutions offered by protechallergies.com are specially designed for allergy sufferers:

  • Certified anti-allergen bedding covers

  • Durable, washable textile protectors

  • Products without harsh chemical treatments, suitable for sensitive people

Can you live a normal life with a pollen allergy?

Yes. By combining good prevention, appropriate daily gestures and the use of effective anti-allergenic products, it is possible to considerably reduce symptoms and regain better respiratory comfort, even during the pollen season.

Conclusion

Pollen allergy is a common but perfectly manageable condition. Understanding its origins, recognizing the symptoms and adopting effective solutions, such as those proposed on protechallergies.com, can limit exposure to allergens and improve quality of life in the long term.