Seasonal allergies: what they are and how to relieve their symptoms

Spring and the changing seasons are great news for many, but not for allergy sufferers. A stuffy nose, constant sneezing, itchy nose, watery eyes, and fatigue are just some of the symptoms that affect millions of people every year.

Although there are specific drug treatments to control allergic reactions, more and more people are looking for complementary alternatives that help relieve discomfort more naturally and maintain good nasal health .

Among them, nasal irrigation with seawater has become one of the most widely used solutions to improve respiratory well-being during periods of greater exposure to allergens.

What is an allergy and why does it occur?

An allergy is an exaggerated reaction of the immune system to substances that are normally harmless to most people. These substances, known as allergens , can be found in pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, or even in the air.

When an allergic person comes into contact with an allergen, their body mistakenly interprets it as a threat and activates a defensive response. As a result, histamine and other inflammatory substances are released, causing the typical allergy symptoms.

The intensity of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from mild discomfort to breathing difficulties that require medical attention.

The most common allergy symptoms

Allergies can manifest in different ways depending on the person and the type of allergen involved. Among the most common symptoms are:

• Nasal congestion.
• Frequent sneezing.
• Itching of the nose and throat.
• Watery or irritated eyes.
• Constant nasal discharge.
• Sensation of pressure in the sinuses.
• Fatigue or feeling of tiredness.

In some cases, allergies can also aggravate pre-existing respiratory problems, such as asthma.

Why does the nose get congested during an allergy?

The nasal mucosa acts as a natural barrier against external agents. When it detects the presence of an allergen, it becomes inflamed to try to protect the body.

This inflammation causes the nasal passages to narrow, increasing mucus production and making normal breathing difficult. Furthermore, allergens can become trapped in the mucus, prolonging discomfort as long as they remain in contact with it.

Therefore, keeping the nasal passages clean can help reduce the allergen load and improve respiratory comfort.

The role of seawater in allergy relief

In recent years, the use of naturally sourced seawater has become popular as a complement to daily respiratory care.

Nasal irrigation with isotonic solutions helps to gently cleanse the nasal passages, removing dust particles, pollen, and other irritants that can trigger or worsen allergy symptoms.

In addition to promoting mechanical cleaning of the nose, these types of solutions help maintain hydration of the nasal mucosa and help reduce the feeling of congestion.

When seawater is enriched with minerals and trace elements, such as manganese, it can offer additional benefits thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties on the nasal mucosa.

How to choose a good seawater solution

Not all nasal solutions are the same. If you're looking for a product for daily respiratory care, it's worth considering a few important aspects:

• Soft microdiffusion
  Systems that generate very fine particles allow for uniform distribution of the product and respect the sensitivity of the nasal mucosa.
• Anatomical nozzle
  A nozzle designed to fit comfortably into the nostrils makes application easy for both adults and children.
• Controlled pressure
  Solutions with a gentle spray help clean the nose without causing discomfort or excessive pressure.
• Anti-reflux system
  The presence of specific valves prevents product contamination and ensures greater hygiene during use.

Other tips for managing allergy symptoms

In addition to following your healthcare professional's advice, some habits can help reduce your exposure to allergens:

• Ventilate your home during the hours of lowest pollen concentration.
• Avoid hanging clothes outdoors during days of high pollen count.
• Wash your hands and face when you get home.
• Maintain good hydration.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes when there is a lot of pollen in the air.
• Clean your nasal passages regularly if you are prone to allergic rhinitis.