After the winter, most people are looking forward to spring again and the rising temperatures. For an ever growing part of the population, however, the change of season also means a health burden – namely for those allergic to pollen.
Some measures such as planning leisure activities and holidays according to pollen forecasts already provide relief for those affected. But some technical aids can also be used to combat the annoying allergens.
Keep pollen concentration in living areas low
To protect yourself effectively against pollen, you should first be aware of how it is spread. The allergens are the male genetic material of a plant and are released in large quantities by the plant. The pollen is spread by insects, but mainly by the wind – over very long distances. So even if you do not live in the country, you can be affected by hay fever.
Due to its airborne distribution, it therefore initially helps to reduce the pollen concentration in the apartment or house through effective and correct ventilation. For example, a room air sensor can provide information about when it is really necessary to open the windows by measuring the CO2 value in the room. The time of day also plays a role: In rural areas, for example, more pollen flies in the morning, while in the city the pollen load is higher in the evening. Therefore, you should let fresh air into the house against these times.
Pollen protection grilles that can be installed on windows and doors as well as for the car’s air conditioning system are an additional remedy. These already shield most of the pollen and also act as insect screens.
It’s all about the right humidity
Allergic reactions to pollen, which despite careful ventilation and pollen protection grids are carried into the house by clothing, for example, can also be alleviated by the correct air humidity.If the room air is too dry, fine dust and allergenic substances fly around unbound in the air. In addition, low humidity has a negative effect on well-being – and dried out mucous membranes are more susceptible to the absorption of allergens. However, too high a humidity level is also not pleasant and, in the worst case, can lead to mould and water damage to wooden furniture and floors. The moisture content in the room air should therefore not be higher than 60 percent in the long term.
With the help of a measuring device you can check the humidity in your own four walls at any time. On some models, you can set your smartphone to notify you when the water content of the air in the room falls below or exceeds a set level. If the humidity is too low or too high in the long term, you should consider buying a humidifier or dehumidifier.
Install an air purifier
The most effective measure against pollen is an air purifier. These devices rid the room air of various allergens and leave only a residual concentration of the annoying allergens in the air.
The Mi Air Purifier 3H from Xiaomi, for example, effectively helps allergy sufferers by filtering up to 99.97 percent of all allergenic substances from the air. This is done with the help of a triple HEPA Class 13 filter and a laser dust sensor. If the filter needs to be changed, the user is informed by an alarm. If the air purifier is only to be switched on for a certain period of time to save energy, the timer function can be activated.
As the device also displays air quality, room temperature and humidity, it offers the complete package for pleasant indoor air. It is controlled via several channels: either directly via the touch display, via the associated app or by one of the compatible language assistants such as Alexa.
So with a few precautions and technical helpers, allergy sufferers can also enjoy the spring.
