The natural rebirth that spring brings is not always a joyful moment for everyone. At the same time, with the flowering of plants and the increase in the concentration of pollen in the air, the problem of seasonal allergies arises, in particular, allergic rhinitis or hay fever, writes IZ. This disease affects millions of people around the world, and its symptoms can vary significantly depending on the age group. Marca examined how allergies can change and affect the body throughout life, from childhood to old age.
Content
- Childhood: from the beginning of life to 10 years
- Adolescence: Changes in the Immune System
- Adulthood: complications due to stress and the professional environment
- Old age: the immune system loses its effectiveness
Childhood: from the beginning of life to 10 years
Pollen allergies usually begin in children between the ages of 2 and 10. During this period, the immune system is still developing, making the child more vulnerable to allergic reactions. The most common symptoms are sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. It is important to note that early exposure to pollen can increase the risk of developing allergic bronchitis or asthma later in life. Untreated allergies can also impair academic performance and sleep quality, affecting a child’s physical and emotional development.
This is a time when parents should be especially careful about their children's health, as underestimating symptoms can lead to serious complications in the future.
Adolescence: Changes in the Immune System
In teenagers, spring allergies are often exacerbated by hormonal changes that occur in the body. Many young people experience an increase in the severity of their symptoms during this time. Teenagers are prone to developing chronic allergic rhinitis, which can greatly affect their daily lives and social relationships. Fatigue caused by sleep disturbances due to allergy symptoms can negatively affect concentration and academic performance. In addition, some teenagers begin to suffer from asthma, which is directly related to seasonal allergies.
Therefore, it is especially important for adolescents to consult a doctor in a timely manner to correct symptoms and prevent their progression.
Adulthood: complications due to stress and the professional environment
In adulthood, allergies become more complex and can be exacerbated by a variety of factors, from occupational circumstances to stress. People who work outdoors or in agriculture may have higher concentrations of allergens in their daily lives, which can exacerbate symptoms. Also, ongoing stress related to work, family responsibilities, and other factors can increase the body's sensitivity to allergens.
It is also important to note that adults are more likely to develop new allergic reactions or aggravate existing ones. Treating allergies at this age requires special attention to interactions between allergy medications and other medications that may be prescribed to treat comorbid conditions.
Old age: the immune system loses its effectiveness
As we age, our immune systems weaken, which can change how we respond to seasonal allergens. Some older people experience less severe allergic reactions as a result of changes in their immune systems. However, others may develop new allergic reactions or experience worsening of existing ones.
Comorbid conditions, such as chronic respiratory diseases, can complicate the treatment of allergies in older adults, making it especially important to have regular check-ups and adjust treatment to minimize the impact of allergies on overall health.
As a reminder, we previously wrote about whether martial arts can help children with autism.