1 What is Weather Allergy and What Types Are There?
Weather allergy occurs when the body reacts to weather elements such as humidity, temperature, and various other allergens in the air. Weather allergies typically occur during sudden climate changes, such as seasonal transitions.
There are two types of weather allergies:
- Acute weather allergy: This is a condition that starts suddenly and then gradually improves over 24 hours to 6 weeks. Symptoms of this type of allergy usually include itchy nose, runny nose, hives, and red patches on the skin.
- Chronic weather allergy: This condition occurs when allergy symptoms persist for more than 6 weeks. At this stage, the symptoms may not be as severe as in the acute phase, but complications can arise, such as bronchial asthma, perennial allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria, dermatitis, etc.
2 Is Weather Allergy Dangerous?
Although it does not pose a direct threat to health, this condition can significantly impact the lives of those affected, particularly in terms of their appearance and sleep. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals with weather allergies take a proactive approach to treatment to control the condition as early as possible and prevent it from becoming chronic.
In rare cases, weather allergies can be severe. Thus, it is important to seek medical attention and treatment if symptoms persist, intensify, or prolong.
3 What Causes Weather Allergies?
Weather Conditions
Extremes of temperature, whether too hot or too cold, are among the primary causes of weather allergies. During these periods, humidity, temperature, and allergen levels in the air increase, overwhelming the immune system and triggering allergic reactions.
Allergic Constitution
Individuals with a sensitive constitution are more prone to allergies than others. This sensitivity heightens the immune system’s response to both internal and external stimuli.
Genetic Factors
Genetics also play a role in weather allergies. Statistics show that if both parents have a history of weather allergies, allergic rhinitis, etc., their children are at a higher risk of developing weather allergies.
Compromised Immune System
A weakened immune system creates an environment conducive to the onset and exacerbation of weather allergies, leading to various symptoms.
4 Symptoms and Signs of Weather Allergies
The following are common symptoms and signs of weather allergies:
- Allergic rhinitis: This is a widespread symptom, characterized by nasal congestion, itchy nose, and sneezing.
- Skin rash and red patches, causing itching and discomfort.
- Skin swelling or redness.
- Urticaria (hives): A severe symptom that can lead to breathing difficulties, rapid and sudden drop in blood pressure, and widespread allergic reactions.
5 Treatment and Prevention of Weather Allergies
Use Appropriate Allergy Medication
In cases of severe weather allergy outbreaks with persistent itching, it is advisable to seek medical advice from a dermatologist, who can recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Avoid Allergy Triggers
- Airborne allergens: These are the most common triggers and can be mitigated by wearing masks and long-sleeved clothing when going outdoors.
- Polluted environments with high dust levels: Installing air purifiers can help reduce allergies and protect the respiratory system.
- During cold weather, keep warm, and in hot weather, wear breathable clothing and maintain good personal hygiene.
- Limit prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Avoid potential food allergens, alcohol, caffeine, and smoking.
Home Remedies
- Taking warm or cool showers depending on the weather to regulate body temperature and reduce skin rashes and itching.
- Inhaling herbal steam, such as ginger, green tea, or tea tree oil, to help decongest the respiratory system and eliminate allergens from the mucous membranes.
- Consuming vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables and drinking at least 2 liters of water daily to hydrate and detoxify the body. Regular exercise is also recommended.
- Using moisturizers to soothe and reduce itching and redness.
