Hay fever (pollinosis) is an allergy to pollen, i.e. to the pollen of plants. Especially often responsible for allergic reactions are, besides grass and cereal pollen, also early flowering trees like hazel, alder and birch as well as some herbs.
At the next contact with the allergen in question, histamines and other mediators are released, leading to a defensive reaction. Affected are mainly those parts of the body that are directly affected by the allergens - i.e. the conjunctiva of the eyes or the mucous membrane of the nose. This leads to irritation or swelling of the mucous membranes, lacrimation, runny nose and sneezing attacks. Allergic asthma often develops after years - especially if no appropriate treatment is given. About 30% of patients develop bronchial asthma within 10 years.
Your diet has a great impact on the symptoms. Consuming as little histamine-rich food as possible should be considered. To prevent pollen from entering the bedroom, keep the windows closed.
Almost every fourth to fifth adult suffers from hay fever. In children under 6 years of age, 3-7% are affected; in older children it is even between 7 and 13%. As with all allergies the tendency is rising.
The right contact person for suspected hay fever (pollinosis) is a doctor with the additional title "Allergology". These are usually dermatologists, ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors, lung specialists, internists or pediatricians who have completed additional training as allergologists.
Elderflower has an active property called tannis. Its anti-catarrhal and anti-inflammatory behaviour helps treat hay fever.