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Spring has sprung in South Africa, bringing the promise of warm days, blooming flowers and new life. It can, however, bring discomfort to those who suffer from pollen allergies. According to the South African Allergy Society, as many as 40% of South Africans experience seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. Additionally, over a million South Africans have been professionally diagnosed with asthma, and eczema cases are on the rise. What do these conditions have in common? Pollen!

The Impact of Pollen

With South Africa experiencing a particularly wet winter this year, plant growth is booming, leading to increased pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. Even the choice of trees in municipalities can contribute to higher pollen levels. Male trees, often preferred for landscaping, produce more pollen, which can exacerbate the situation.

Limiting Your Pollen Exposure

For allergy sufferers, it’s crucial to minimise exposure to pollen. Here are some things to consider:

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days.
• Opt for outdoor activities that limit contact with trees and grasses.
• Delegate gardening tasks like mowing and weeding, or wear a mask if you must do them.
• Avoid hanging laundry outside, as pollen can stick to your clothes, bedding, and towels.

Beyond Pollen: A Double Whammy

Allergy sufferers may not realise that the allergic reaction to pollen can also make the body hypersensitive to non-seasonal allergens, such as pet fur, dander, and dust. This heightened sensitivity can lead to year-round discomfort and medication reliance.

Can Properly Hydrating Help With Allergies?

Ensuring your body is properly hydrated can help with allergies in a few ways. First and foremost, when mucus membranes are dry and itchy, they’re less able to do their job. When you’re dehydrated, your throat and nose may be more susceptible to pollen and ragweed, irritating your sinuses more easily. Drinking more water will help keep your mucus membranes moist, so they can protect against allergens much more efficiently than if they were dry.

The same goes for nasal passages – dehydration leads directly to sinus inflammation and congestion. Adding plenty of fluids to your daily routine can help fight congestion and thin the mucus. While you recover from allergies, it is essential to treat your symptoms accordingly. Give your body the necessary vitamins and minerals to be at the top of its game.

Also, note that dehydration is a common side-effect of allergies during the pollen season. It’s easy to let yourself get dehydrated because the average person loses about 2L of water per day. Add watery eyes and runny noses to the mix, and you could lose even more.

Avoid dehydration by replacing the water and electrolytes your body loses throughout your day. In addition, we may be prone to itchy throats due to the changing seasons, but drinking plenty of fluids and staying hydrated can provide some short-term relief for these annoying symptoms.

To prevent dehydration from seasonal allergies, remember to:

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Aim for eight glasses of purified water at a minimum.
• If possible, avoid excessive amounts of coffee and beer, which are natural diuretics.
• Eat fruit or vegetables with high water content, like melons and cucumbers.

Your Spring Ally: H2O | BWT

As spring brings its beauty and challenges, H2O | BWT is your partner in achieving a healthier, allergy-free season. Seasonal allergies can dampen the joys of spring, but our advanced water filtration systems offer a comprehensive solution. When your body is adequately hydrated with filtered water, it’s better equipped to manage allergic reactions and minimise their impact on your daily life.

Clean water is fundamental to well-being, aiding your body in its defence against allergens and pollutants. With H2O | BWT water filters, you’re investing in year-round health.

This spring, make the smart choice.

Invest in an H2O | BWT water filter and welcome spring with assurance, knowing clean, pure water is by your side.