As spring unfolds across South Africa, bringing warmer days and blooming landscapes, it also ushers in a season of sneezes, congestion, and itchy eyes for many.
It is highlighted that understanding what triggers seasonal allergies, how to identify them, and ways to reduce their impact can help one embrace the season more comfortably.
Tania Joffe, founder of Unu Health reveals that spring allergies are incredibly common in South Africa, especially in regions where pollen counts are high.
“The good news is that with the right approach, you can reduce exposure, manage symptoms, and still enjoy the beauty of spring.”
Research also indicates a concerning trend: according to an ISAAC study, allergic rhinitis symptoms among adolescents in Cape Town climbed from 30.4% in 1995 to 38.5% in 2003. A 2013 study by SciELO revealed that while 48% of people reported chronic nasal symptoms, only 14.9% tested positive for true allergic rhinitis via skin-prick tests.
This highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and suggests that spring allergy season isn’t merely a nuisance but a growing health concern.
So, what exactly are spring allergies? Allergic rhinitis happens when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens like grass, tree, or weed pollen.
These common irritants trigger a histamine response, leading to sneezing, itching, congestion, and watery eyes. “Your body mistakes pollen for a threat, and the resulting histamine release causes the classic symptoms we all dread in spring,” explains Joffe.
Fevers are absent with allergies.
Colds resolve themselves in 7–10 days, while allergies can persist.
Itching is much more common with allergies.
“If your symptoms recur each spring and persist, it's likely an allergy,” Joffe suggests.
To effectively manage your allergies, accurate diagnosis is crucial:
Track your symptoms—note when they spike and how long they linger.
Consult a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms are severe or recurring.
Consider allergy testing—skin-prick or blood tests can identify specific triggers.
“Diagnosing your specific allergen is the first step in effective management,” Joffe advises.
Here are practical tips for minimising exposure to allergens:
Track local pollen counts, UCT's Pollen Network provides region-specific alerts.
Keep windows closed and consider air-conditioning to block pollen indoors.
Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities to remove lingering allergens.
Use saline nasal rinses to flush out pollen.
Wash bedding frequently in hot water to eliminate allergens.
Wear sunglasses outdoors to shield eyes from pollen.
“Allergies don’t have to define your springtime,” Joffe says.
“By knowing what triggers your symptoms, reducing exposure, and seeking proper treatment, you can still enjoy this vibrant season. It is best to speak to a doctor about what treatment option would be best for you, from antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids (INCS) to help with congestion and
Saturday Star