It Might Not Be a Cold, It Could Be Allergies: Beware of Mornings

As temperatures rise, a surge in airborne pollen is becoming a significant concern, particularly for individuals with allergies. Dr. Ömer Çelikal, a member of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases department, warns that the increased pollen count in spring and early summer can trigger various respiratory issues, most notably allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.

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The arrival of spring and summer months has caused trees, grasses, and flowers to release their pollen into nature. This situation opens the door to a very challenging period for our citizens with allergic constitutions.

Çelikal noted that people with allergic constitutions experience heightened symptoms such as a runny nose, frequent sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. He stressed the importance of not dismissing these signs as a common cold, especially if they recur annually during the same period. "If you experience these complaints at the same time every year, the enemy you are facing is most likely pollen," he stated.

To mitigate the impact of pollen, Dr. Çelikal recommends minimizing time spent outdoors during peak pollen hours, which are typically in the early morning and during windy conditions. He suggests rescheduling outdoor activities like walking or exercising to the afternoon or evening. Upon returning indoors, it is crucial to change clothes and shower to remove pollen particles that adhere to hair and skin, thereby preventing allergens from entering the living space and disrupting sleep.

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Our citizens with allergic constitutions should not stay outdoors for long periods in the morning hours unless absolutely necessary, and I recommend postponing activities such as walking and exercising to the afternoon or evening hours.

Furthermore, Çelikal advised careful consideration of ventilation times for homes. Windows should be opened during periods when pollen concentration is lower, generally in the evening. While complete avoidance of pollen is impossible, these measures can significantly reduce exposure and improve the quality of life for allergy sufferers.

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Therefore, when returning home, the first thing to do is change clothes and take a shower. This way, we can remove the pollen that has stuck to us throughout the day from our living space.