Perfect Storm for Pollen Allergies Brewing This spring

This spring is shaping up to be especially challenging for allergy sufferers. Unusually warm winter temperatures, coupled with recent heavy rainfall, are creating ideal conditions for a notable surge in pollen levels. Experts predict an early start to the pollination season, with possibly higher pollen counts and extended periods of discomfort for those with pollen allergies.

The State Meteorology Agency (Aemet) reports that Segovia experienced winter temperatures 1.1 degrees Celsius above average,with a 60% probability of a warmer-than-usual spring. This, combined with abundant March rains, is expected to accelerate pollination and increase pollen production, leading to earlier and more intense allergy seasons.

regional Hotspots: Castilla y León Faces “Moderate-Intense” Pollen Levels

The peninsular center of Spain, particularly Castilla y León, is anticipated to be a major area of concern. The Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC) forecasts a “moderate-intense” spring for the region, suggesting pollen levels will be higher than normal. This mirrors the situation last spring, where Segovia hospital’s allergology departments saw 15 to 20 daily patients suffering from pollen allergies in early April alone.

Sacyl, the regional health authority, is monitoring pollen levels. recent data from Segovia indicates a rise in pollen from cuppresacea (conifers) and urticating plants, with moderate concentrations (26-50 grains per cubic meter). Grass pollen remains low for now (1-25 grains per cubic meter). Though, if the predicted warm whether persists, plant flowering will increase, and pollen levels are expected to rise significantly.

Key Allergenic Plants to Watch out For

In the Segovia province, common allergy triggers include plane trees (shadow bananas), grasses, olive trees, and cuppresacea. Sacyl data shows that plane tree pollen is currently the most prevalent. While mid-March saw nearly 800 grains per cubic meter, this is still lower than previous years. Recent rain and cold may have delayed the peak, but warmer weather could trigger a surge.

Cupressaceae pollen levels were high last year, peaking around January. Early spring data remains elevated, suggesting a continuation of the trend from the past three years, with levels around 300 grains/m3. Grass pollen allergy sufferers can expect some relief until May or June,when grass pollen typically peaks. Olive pollen usually reaches its maximum activity at the end of April.

It’s crucial for allergy sufferers to stay informed about weather changes.Unpredictable conditions like prolonged cold, sudden heatwaves, or continued rainfall can significantly alter pollination patterns and affect allergy symptoms.

the Growing Problem of Pollen Allergies: A national and Global Perspective

Pollen allergies are becoming increasingly prevalent. Currently, in Spain, pollen allergy affects 15% of the population, rising to 30% among young people, according to the Ministry of Health. This translates to approximately eight million Spaniards suffering from pollen allergies. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 20-25% of the world population has some form of allergy, a figure projected to double by 2050.

Several external factors contribute to this rise, including lifestyle changes, pollution, and climate change, which leads to more frequent and extreme weather events.We have observed an increase in sensitivity to allergens and aggravation of the symptoms of allergic patients. In addition, polluting particles can irritate the nasal mucosa, skin and ocular conjunctive, so that allergens penetrate more easily, explains Carmen Andreu, Secretary of the SEAIC.

Climate change impacts the timing, distribution, quantity, and quality of allergens, and also the severity of allergic diseases. Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns influence plant pollination, affecting allergy symptoms. This leads to an increase in respiratory diseases like asthma, allergic rhinitis, and conjunctivitis. Furthermore, pollen distribution and concentration in urban areas are changing, extending the duration of high-pollen seasons.