Millions of Australians are anticipating a more severe hay fever season this year, with higher-than-average pollen levels and an earlier onset predicted. Approximately six million Australians, or one in four individuals, suffer from hay fever, a significant increase from 15% in 2008. This condition, also known as allergic rhinitis, is typically triggered by an allergic reaction to common allergens such as pollen and dust mites.
Symptoms including itchy, runny or blocked noses, and itchy or watery eyes, usually reach their peak during the spring and summer months. However, this year's pollen season may begin earlier than the typical early November peak, influenced by the Bureau of Meteorology's warning of a potential 'super' El Niño. This weather event could be one of the strongest recorded since 1950.
Health Preparations and Long-Term Solutions
As many Australians prepare by stocking up on over-the-counter medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays, some are exploring longer-term treatment options. Immunotherapy, or 'desensitisation,' is a therapy designed to help the body build tolerance to allergens. This treatment involves gradually exposing the immune system to increasing doses of specific allergens, either through injections or sublingual tablets, to reduce overreactions. A significant drawback is that the process typically takes several years to show substantial effects and is not covered by Medicare, with monthly costs potentially reaching $150.
Dr. Aaron Chambers from Allergy First stated that this treatment, administered monthly for three to five years, can effectively cure allergies by helping to 'switch off' the immune system. He noted that over 50% to 60% of patients experience significant improvement, considering it the best available treatment for hay fever.
Thunderstorm Asthma Risk
Individuals sensitive to grass pollen or those suffering from seasonal hay fever are at an increased risk of thunderstorm asthma, a condition particularly prevalent in Australia's southeastern states from October to December. Thunderstorm asthma is believed to be caused by a combination of high concentrations of grass pollen in the air and specific types of thunderstorms.
Globally, 26 epidemic thunderstorm asthma events have been recorded since 1983, with 11 occurring in Australia. Melbourne experienced the largest and most severe event in 2016, leading to 8,500 hospitalizations and ten fatalities. The victims included a diverse range of individuals, from a young father to a married couple.
The phenomenon is thought to be triggered by a confluence of high pollen counts, strong winds, elevated temperatures, and rainfall. Ambulance Victoria Director of Emergency Management, Dale Armstrong, emphasized the importance of preventative measures for hay fever and allergy sufferers on high pollen days, stating that taking simple steps now can help maintain health and reduce the strain on emergency services.