Medicine: For a long time, pollen allergy sufferers were advised to exercise as little as possible outdoors and to avoid competitive sports altogether in order not to put too much strain on the body. When the pollen concentration is high, a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes or shortness of breath are the typical symptoms that spoil the desire to exercise for many allergy sufferers anyway. Today, however, it has been proven that sport in the great outdoors is also important for hay fever patients in order to permanently strengthen the immune system and stimulate lung activity. If you take a few precautionary measures and listen to your own body's signals, nothing stands in the way of having fun in the fresh air.
Plan outdoor sports properly
It is still said in many places that pollen allergy sufferers should completely avoid competitive outdoor sports and should avoid training in indoor sports halls in order to consistently avoid contact with allergens. The popular outdoor sports such as jogging, cycling, walking or swimming only become particularly attractive in the warm season. Since breathing is intensified by physical exertion, the intake of allergens is particularly high in athletes. Nevertheless, many experts today agree that exercise in the fresh air is also suitable for hay fever patients if they take a few precautionary measures. The typical endurance sports of cycling and jogging are also considered safe for allergy sufferers under certain conditions if the pollen count is not too high. The right timing during training is particularly important. In this way, the body can be consistently protected against high pollen levels. The time after heavy rain is particularly valuable, because the rain causes the pollen to sink to the ground, which significantly reduces the risk of inhaling it. When training in the city, the morning hours should be used, because that is when the fewest pollen fly. In rural areas, on the other hand, the pollen count is lowest in the evening.
Cycling when pollen counts
Sports such as cycling and mountain biking require a clear view and full ability to concentrate. However, allergic reactions such as swollen or itchy eyes and tiredness can have a negative impact on them, which is why extensive prevention of symptoms in competitive outdoor sports is essential. Cyclists who suffer from pollen allergies should resort to hay fever medication such as sprays or drops that are available in pharmacies without a prescription. These can be used specifically for allergy symptoms in the nose and eyes and bring about a significant alleviation of the acute symptoms within ten to fifteen minutes. When used consistently, such drugs provide long-term protection against the occurrence of new symptoms and possible inflammatory reactions. Competitive athletes should always have these medications to hand when going out in nature and use them until the pollen load has passed. In addition, these antiallergic products for the eyes and nose do not impair performance and can therefore be used without any problems even during intensive sporting activity.
To minimize contact between eyes and pollen, special cycling glasses with side protection are suitable. Wearing a hat prevents allergens from getting stuck in your hair. For particularly intensive training and the associated deeper breathing, a pollen protection mask or a mouthguard from the pharmacy is recommended. Those allergy sufferers who can avoid training at altitudes of over 1.500 meters can count themselves lucky: the pollen load is much lower in the mountains. There you can train unhindered, take a deep breath and enjoy the beautiful landscape.