Rhinitis, asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis: allergies to pollen have increased significantly over the past twenty-five years. According to studies, more than 10% of the population is affected by pollen allergies, but this percentage reaches 30% in adults. The reasons behind this increase are linked to both environmental factors and air pollution.
In recent years, the increase in contamination has exacerbated respiratory problems, especially for allergy sufferers. Air pollution not only directly affects the respiratory system, but also enhances the negative effects of pollen. This is because polluting particles modify the structure of pollen, making it more aggressive to the human body and aggravating allergic symptoms. Below, we explore how the interaction between pollen, pollution and other factors such as climate change is affecting human health.
Effect of pollutants on pollen and the respiratory system
El pollen, a natural substance found in the air during the flowering season, has become more dangerous due to high levels of air pollutionSpecifically, particles of PM10 y PM2.5 (very small suspended particles) appear to interact with pollen grains, making them more potent and facilitating their entry into the airways. These pollutants alter the structure of pollen, fragmenting it into smaller particles that penetrate the lungs more effectively, generating or aggravating respiratory pathologies such as asthma and allergic rhinitis.
In addition, studies have shown that prolonged exposure to pollutants such as NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) and the ozone increases inflammation in the airways, making allergic reactions more severe. Urban pollen, when exposed to these pollutants, becomes more complex and triggers a more aggressive immune response, which explains why many people living in cities have more intense allergy symptoms than those living in rural areas.
Another significant factor is the effect of particulate matter emitted by diesel engines. Various studies have found that these particulate matter increases the aggressiveness of pollen by inducing the production of stress proteins in plants. As a result, the pollen from urban areas It is more allergenic than that of rural areas.
Climate change and its relationship with the amount of allergens
El climate change has altered the natural behaviour of the seasons and, consequently, the allergy seasons have also undergone modifications. A key factor is the increase in the concentration of CO2, which has led to an increase in pollen production by plants. In addition, higher temperatures have caused pollination periods to be prolonged, exposing people to allergens for longer. This phenomenon is particularly critical, as in some places in Europe it has been observed that the period of exposure to pollen has been extended by up to three additional months.
In particular, species such as birch, cypress and grasses, which traditionally had shorter pollination seasons, now release pollen for longer, which lengthens the allergy season. This, combined with increasingly polluted air, exacerbates respiratory health problems.
Increasing global temperature It has also facilitated the migration of invasive plant species, such as Ragweed, which produce highly allergenic pollen. This phenomenon is more frequent in urban areas, where climatic conditions and air pollution create a favorable environment for these plants.
The impact on allergy sufferers and preventive measures
For people who suffer from pollen allergies, the effects of pollution and climate change have worsened their symptoms. Both the higher concentration of pollen in the air and its greater aggressiveness have caused cases of allergic rhinitis, asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis to increase exponentially in recent decades.
To mitigate this impact, allergy sufferers should take preventive measures. First, it is advisable to avoid open areas with high concentrations of pollutants and pollen, especially during times of day when pollen levels are at their peak, such as in the morning and evening. It is advisable to keep windows closed, use air purifiers at home, and take preventive medication prescribed by an allergist before the start of the pollen season.
The following measures can also reduce exposure to pollen and pollution:
- The use of masks and sunglasses outside.
- Check out apps like Pollen Alert, certified by SEAIC, to know the daily pollen levels.
- Avoid outdoor activities during days with high pollution and pollination.
- Shower and change clothes when you return home to remove pollen from your skin and hair.
At the government level, measures have been implemented to reduce the impact of pollen in urban areas. These include limiting the planting of highly allergenic species, such as London plane trees, in parks and public areas. In addition, legislation is being promoted to reduce pollution levels in cities, which will benefit allergy sufferers in the long term.
The combination of air pollution and pollen is seriously affecting respiratory health, increasing the incidence of allergic diseases. Staying informed about pollen and pollution levels is crucial to avoid complications, and daily preventive measures can make a big difference in the quality of life of allergy sufferers.