When the skin itches, the eyes water and breathing becomes difficult, it is often not just the summer's fault. Climate change, flowering ornamental grasses in the city and strong UV radiation strain the body – especially for people with allergies. But there is help.

For many, summer means lightness, sunshine and time spent outdoors. For allergy sufferers, however, this season can become a real ordeal: insect stings, pollen and sunlight not only strain the immune system but also push the skin to its limits.In an interview with the daily newspaper KURIER, dermatologist Dr. Tamara Kopp from JUVENIS, together with colleagues, explains what you should look out for – and what really helps.

Insect stings – harmless or dangerous?

A single sting is often only unpleasant. But those who react allergically can develop serious symptoms within minutes: shortness of breath, facial swelling or circulatory problems. In the worst case, an anaphylactic shock can occur.

Our tip:

Allergy sufferers should always carry an emergency kit with an epinephrine auto-injector. If stung in the mouth or throat, everyone should call emergency services immediately.

Pollen on continuous flight – climate change is taking effect

Did you know that around 30% of Austrians are now affected by pollen allergies? Thanks to mild winters and hot summers, the season now lasts almost the entire year. Particularly problematic are southern grass species and allergy-triggering plants that are increasingly being used in urban greening projects.

We recommend during high exposure:

  • FFP2 mask in windy conditions
  • Sea salt sprays & eye drops
  • Air purifiers & pollen protection screens at home

Thunderstorm asthma: an underestimated risk

Hot, muggy, windy – ideal conditions for bursting pollen grains that can penetrate especially deeply into the airways. This phenomenon is called 'thunderstorm asthma' and mainly affects susceptible individuals.

Sun allergy – when UV radiation stresses the skin

Itching, red pustules and a feeling of tightness after sunbathing? Behind an alleged allergy is usually a photodermatosis – a hypersensitivity reaction of the skin to UVA rays.

How to protect your skin effectively:

  • Sunscreen with high UVA protection
  • UV-protective clothing & sun hats
  • Fern-extract capsules (Polypodium Leucotomos) to strengthen the skin from within
  • Cooling after-sun products
  • For acute reactions: cortisone ointments

Our conclusion at JUVENIS

Allergies and skin reactions don't have to be a summer K.O. With modern prevention, targeted treatment, and medical supervision, you can enjoy the warm season despite pollen & Co.

We are happy to advise you in person at our practice – whether it's for allergy testing, skin care, or emergency preparedness. Book an appointment now!

Here is the link to the PDF of the article in the Kurier for further reading:

Summer allergies

 

JUVENIS in Vienna offers services related to Health & preventive care, Radiance & posture as well as Outer beauty that make you outwardly radiant and enhance your well-being.

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