Pollen Levels Rising in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Affecting Allergy Sufferers

Islamabad:The Pakistan Meteorological Department has announced that pollen dispersal has begun in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, with peak levels expected during the second and third weeks of March. The department issued an advisory, warning that asthma and respiratory patients could be severely impacted by the increasing pollen levels.

According to the advisory, monitoring devices have been installed in various sectors of the city, including Sector H8, F10, E8, and G6, to track the pollen levels. As spring begins, the amount of pollen gradually increases, reaching its highest levels when flowers fully bloom. In Islamabad, the pollen from the Paper Mulberry tree predominates, comprising 97% of the total pollen.

### What Causes Pollen Allergy and Its Treatment?

Pollen allergy, often referred to as seasonal allergic rhinitis, occurs when the immune system reacts excessively to harmless substances like pollen in the air.

### Types of Pollen:

There are three main types of pollen that commonly cause allergies:

1. **Grass Pollen:**
Many people are allergic to grass pollen, experiencing symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, and coughing.

2. **Tree Pollen:**
Tree pollen is very fine and can travel long distances through the air. Even a small amount of inhaled tree pollen can trigger allergic reactions. Common trees that release allergy-causing pollen include Ash, Aspen, Beech, Birch, Box Elder, Cedar, Cottonwood, Elm, Hickory, Mulberry, and others.

3. **Weed Pollen:**
Individuals allergic to grass pollen suffer the most on dry, windy days, when airborne particles are at their peak. A single plant can produce millions of pollen grains daily.

### How Pollen Affects the Body:

When a person inhales pollen particles, their immune system treats them as harmful, triggering an attack on them. This results in the release of histamine, a chemical that causes allergy symptoms. The amount of pollen in the air is heavily influenced by weather conditions. Dry, windy weather increases pollen levels, while rainfall reduces it.

### Common Symptoms of Pollen Allergy:

Symptoms include a runny and blocked nose, frequent sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, red eyes, sore throat, coughing, headaches, and fatigue. These symptoms are common across all types of pollen allergies.

### Managing Pollen Allergy:

Experts suggest that pollen allergy is a common but treatable condition. Those suffering from pollen allergies should recognize their symptoms and consult a doctor for appropriate treatment. Additionally, to prevent exposure, it is advised to stay indoors during peak pollen hours, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers.

Maintaining a clean home environment, regularly washing carpets and curtains, and avoiding pets indoors can also help prevent allergic reactions.

As pollen levels continue to rise in the region, those susceptible to allergies are advised to take precautions to minimize exposure and manage symptoms effectively.