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High pollen levels in spring: How does it affect you if you are allergic?

Spring has arrived with a vengeance, and along with it, the classic symptoms of seasonal allergies. This year, the season is expected to be particularly intense due to the heavy rainfall recorded in January, February and March in the province of Malaga. The rainfall has contributed to increased flowering and, consequently, higher concentrations of pollen in the air.
 

For many people, pollen goes unnoticed. But for those who suffer from allergies, it represents a real daily challenge. Sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, watery eyes and even breathing difficulties can significantly alter their quality of life. At present, it is estimated that 35-40% of the world’s population suffers from some form of allergy, with pollen being one of the most common allergens at this time of year.
 

What symptoms does pollen allergy cause?

The most common symptoms mainly affect the airways (nose and lungs) and the eyes. One of the most typical symptoms is allergic rhinitis, characterised by:
 

• Nasal congestion
• Itchy nose
• Frequent sneezing
• Runny nose

 
When it comes to the eyes, it is common to suffer from allergic conjunctivitis, which manifests itself with redness, itching, tearing and a constant itchy sensation. Also, in more sensitive patients, pollen can trigger symptoms in the lower respiratory tract, causing asthma. In these cases, the person may experience a dry cough, wheezing and a feeling of shortness of breath, which further complicates the daily management of the disease.
 

How can I tell if I have allergies?

When symptoms occur repeatedly at the same time of year, it is important to consult a specialist in Allergology. AsDr. Vicente Albéndiz,allergist and Medical Director at HC Marbella explains, ‘it is essential to confirm whether it is an allergy or whether the symptoms may be due to other causes, such as viral infections or common colds’.
 
During the consultation, diagnostic tests will be performed to identify the specific allergen:
 

• Skin prick test with pneumoallergens: this consists of applying small amounts of different allergens to the skin to check for any reaction.

 

• Blood test with molecular diagnosis: This test detects which specific proteins in each allergen the patient is sensitive to, facilitating a more accurate diagnosis.

 

• Forced spirometry and bronchodilator test: in cases of suspected asthma, lung function is assessed to check how allergens affect breathing capacity.

What treatment options are available?

reatment will depend on the type and severity of the symptoms. In most cases, short- and long-term strategies are combined.

• Control of acute symptoms: with oral antihistamines, anti-allergy eye drops, nasal corticosteroids or, in the case of asthma, inhalers with corticosteroids and bronchodilators.

 

• Long-term treatment: such as immunotherapy (known as the ‘allergy vaccine’), which involves administering small doses of the allergen to gradually reduce the sensitivity of the body. Biological treatments are also used in severe or resistant cases.

Can allergies be prevented?

Although contact with allergens cannot always be avoided, there are measures that can help to reduce symptoms:
 

• Avoid outdoor walks or exercise on days with high pollen counts, especially at dawn and dusk.

 

• Travel with the car windows closed and use anti-pollen filters in the air conditioning.

 

• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from direct contact with pollen.

 

• Do not dry clothes outdoors, as particles may adhere to clothing.

 

• Consider the use of specific masks if you have to stay outdoors for many hours.

Do you have any concerns? Request an assessment

Early detection and treatment of an allergy could make all the difference with regard to your quality of life. If you think you may have an allergy or your symptoms are getting worse every spring, we recommend that you ask for an initial consultation with our specialists in Allergology. At HC Marbella we have the necessary resources to help you identify the cause and control your symptoms effectively, both in the short and long term.
 
Make an appointment with our Allergology team and breathe freely again this spring.

 
 

Dr. Vicente Albendiz
Specialist in allergology

Mai 20, 2025