You Might Not Know You Have an Allergy – Subtle Symptoms Can Give It Away
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Many people may not realize they have an allergy due to subtle or unusual symptoms.
- Professor Laura Malinauskienė, president of the Lithuanian Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, explains how to distinguish allergies from other illnesses.
- Common allergens in Lithuania include birch, grass, and mugwort pollen, with allergies potentially developing later in life.
For many in Lithuania, the subtle and sometimes confusing symptoms of allergies can go unnoticed, leading to prolonged discomfort without a clear diagnosis. Professor Laura Malinauskienė, president of the Lithuanian Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, sheds light on how to differentiate allergic reactions from other ailments, offering crucial guidance to those suffering.
Professor Malinauskienė highlights that allergies, particularly those triggered by birch pollen, are a significant issue in Lithuania, affecting many children and adolescents. She explains that these conditions arise from the immune system's response, which is typically strongest in younger individuals, leading to a higher prevalence of allergies during youth. However, with increasing life expectancy, the definition of 'young' is shifting, and allergies can manifest even in individuals in their 50s and 60s, a point often overlooked.
The professor details the seasonal progression of common allergens. Following the birch pollen season, the focus shifts to grasses, with ryegrass being a notable culprit. As summer progresses into autumn, until the first frosts, allergens like mugwort and wormwood become prevalent. Understanding this pattern is key for Lithuanians to anticipate and manage their allergic responses throughout the year.
From a Lithuanian perspective, this information is vital. While international health outlets might offer general allergy advice, local experts like Professor Malinauskienė provide context specific to the region's flora and typical allergy timelines. This localized knowledge empowers Lithuanians to better understand their health, recognize symptoms that might otherwise be dismissed, and seek appropriate medical attention, ultimately improving their quality of life during allergy seasons.
How to distinguish if an allergy is manifesting or if it is another illness, and what to do to suffer from them as little as possible.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.