Beijing pollen season hits early - Essential tips for allergy sufferers

Author: Xinhua Net, Reviewer: China Weather Network, Curator: Beijing News Broadcast, Production/Organizational Information: N/A

Beijing's pollen season has arrived early, posing challenges for allergy sufferers. Experts advise on protective measures and tips.

This winter, temperatures in many parts of northern China are significantly higher than usual. The flowering period of plants has started earlier, and the pollen season in many areas has also begun sooner than in previous years. The Beijing region has already entered the spring pollen-sensitive period, marking a critical time for health protection for allergic individuals.

Meteorological and environmental monitoring data indicate that this year, the onset of pollen dispersal in Beijing and the surrounding areas has occurred earlier than usual. Early spring pollen from willow, elm, cypress, and other species has gradually entered the air, leading to a rise in pollen concentration. The recent high temperatures are the main reason for the early start of this year’s pollen season, as elevated temperatures have accelerated the differentiation of tree flower buds and the maturation of pollen. Coupled with recent weather conditions, this has caused the overall pollen dispersal period to move forward. Compared to previous years, many northern regions are experiencing a pollen season that arrives earlier and rises more quickly. Additionally, the duration of pollen dispersal has lengthened accordingly. With temperatures expected to steadily rise, it is anticipated that by early to mid-March, most northern regions will gradually enter an active pollen dispersal phase, with pollen concentrations remaining at high levels.

Pollen allergy, also known as hay fever, is most prevalent during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, pollen allergies are concentrated from March to April, with the main allergens being the pollen from plants such as cypress and weeping willow. In some northern regions, the severity of pollen allergies can be even worse than in the southern areas, which experience these allergies earlier in the spring. During this time, northern weather tends to be sunny with little rain, dry air, and strong winds, all of which facilitate the spread of pollen.

The early rise in temperature this spring has accelerated the differentiation and maturation of plant flower buds. Coupled with strong winds, allergenic pollen has started to spread abundantly in the air much earlier than usual.

Currently, the Beijing Meteorological Service Center has started to issue the "2026 Pollen Forecast for Yuke, Beijing." Citizens can closely monitor the daily pollen concentration information released by the meteorological department to take necessary precautions and seek proactive treatment.

How can I self-assess whether I have pollen allergy?

Pollen allergies can be triggered even without nearby trees, as pollen particles can enter indoors. These particles are tiny and can be carried over long distances by the wind, making it essential to take protective measures.

People who are prone to allergies include those with a family history of allergies, children and adolescents with immature immune systems, individuals who often stay up late or experience high levels of stress, and those who have long-term exposure to allergenic environments.

Allergies can cause sneezing, runny nose, and symptoms such as coughing, leading many people to mistakenly think they have a cold. The public can perform simple self-checks: Symptoms such as nasal itching, continuous sneezing, clear nasal discharge, and red, itchy eyes, without fever, sore throat, or body aches, particularly worsening outdoors in windy weather, strongly suggest pollen allergies.

In addition, when the initial symptoms of pollen allergy are not obvious, it can be difficult for patients to identify it. If a patient suddenly realizes that they have developed an allergy to a certain food, experiencing dryness and itching in the oral cavity and swelling of the lips, it may be indicative of a cross-reactive allergic response between pollen and food.

It is recommended that patients who suspect they have pollen allergies promptly visit a hospital to identify their allergens, which will facilitate appropriate environmental control of the allergens.

To prevent pollen allergies, remember this four-character mantra.

Avoid: Try to "stay" indoors during the peak hours from 10 AM to 5 PM.

When going out, always wear a high-level protective mask and goggles.

Wash: After returning home, quickly wash your face and use saline solution to "wash" your nasal cavity.

Preparation: Get the nasal spray hormones and antihistamines ready in advance.

Research has shown that early intervention treatment with immunomodulators prior to the pollen season can improve nasal and ocular symptoms in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis, reduce medication usage during episodes, and enhance the quality of life for these patients.

Prophylactically use medications for allergic rhinitis one week before the onset of the pollen season, and continue to follow the prescribed medication regimen throughout the entire pollen season. After the pollen season concludes and pollen levels decrease to a lower concentration, additional medication can be continued for about a week before gradually tapering off.

Once symptoms appear, seek medical attention promptly; do not endure it, especially for asthma patients. It's essential to carry inhalers that contain medications like salbutamol or formoterol at all times to avoid severe asthma attacks during pollen season.

Sources: Xinhua Net, China Weather Network, Beijing News Broadcast, among others.