Suche
Mein Konto
Allergy alarm in Coburg: Cases of hay fever are increasing rapidly!
In Coburg, an increase in allergy complaints, particularly from grass pollen, is causing concerned citizens and an increase in medication.
Allergy alarm in Coburg: Cases of hay fever are increasing rapidly!
In Coburg the air is harder to breathe. More and more people are suffering from allergy symptoms, especially hay fever. According to a report by NP Coburg, the number of those affected in the region has increased by up to 20 percent in recent years. This development is particularly evident in grass pollen. The symptoms manifest themselves in watery and red eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose and even coughing and shortness of breath.
Family doctor Ullrich Zuber confirms that his practice is seeing an increasing number of patients with corresponding symptoms. It is to be expected that other doctors in the region will also have similar experiences. There is an increased need for anti-allergic medications in pharmacies, both with a prescription and for self-medication. These medications are an essential aid for many sufferers.
Focus on treatment options
Various medications are available to treat hay fever. Antihistamines, which relieve acute symptoms, play a central role. These drugs work by blocking histamine from binding to H1 receptors on the mucous membranes. Well-known representatives include cetirizine, loratadine, azelastine and ebastine. To be effective, antihistamines should be taken throughout the pollen season, as the Allergy Compact website explains.
In addition, there are mast cell stabilizers that have a more preventive effect and serve to prevent the release of histamine from mast cells. You should start taking it 3 to 4 weeks before the pollen season to provide optimal protection.
Causes and risk factors
The causes of allergies such as hay fever are complex. Anyone can develop allergic rhinitis, although the risk increases if both parents are affected. A study at the Max Delbrück Center shows that hay fever is often inherited together with asthma and allergic eczema. The microbiome also plays a role; A high diversity of bacteria in the intestinal mucosa can reduce the risk of allergies.
It is also discussed how psychological factors – such as generalized anxiety disorder – are related to allergies. The type of delivery can also play a role: children born by cesarean section have a higher risk of developing allergies. Conflicting studies on breastfeeding show that while it can be seen as protective, it does not necessarily prevent allergies.
Another interesting aspect is the environment in which children grow up. According to Quarks, confronting allergens is often better than avoiding them. Children raised on farms are less likely to develop allergies, while air pollution and cigarette smoke increase the risk. In areas polluted by nitrogen oxides and fine dust, people are more likely to suffer from hay fever.
The increasing number of allergy sufferers in Coburg is a warning sign. It is up to society to raise awareness of this issue and to provide those affected with the necessary information and resources. True to the motto: “There’s something going on!”