Decontamination of asthmatics: what are the risks?

The months of May and June are synonymous with a peak in the circulation of pollen every year, which is the cause of many allergies. This year their presence is "particularly intense and early" warns the association Asthma and Allergies. Throughout the territory, grass pollen is very present in the air in the coming days with a high risk of allergy. A red pollen alert is launched by the national pollen monitoring network and concerns two thirds of the country. The RNSA (National Aerobiological Surveillance Network), which publishes the pollen map, confirms in its latest bulletin that plantain, sorrel and pellitory (urticaceae) pollens are present in the air in low to moderate quantities throughout the country. . In the east of the country and particularly in the Alps, the green alder is in bloom and the concentration of this pollen will be moderate there. Linden trees are also starting to bloom. But they are only responsible for proximity allergies, ie people sensitive to these pollens will only have symptoms when they are near these trees. Fortunately, oak pollens have almost disappeared from circulation except around the Mediterranean where the risk of allergy may still reach the average level in certain places. It is precisely around the Mediterranean that it will be necessary to monitor pollen from olive trees and parietaria (urticaceae), which will be responsible for a low to locally medium risk of allergy. The expected rise in temperatures and sunshine also increase the risk of allergies, while showers significantly reduce it. This sensitive period for allergy sufferers and asthmatics is the one chosen by the government for deconfinement. Should people with asthma and allergies continue to stay confined as much as possible? "Nothing justifies it" according to allergist Sophie Silcret-Grieu. Explanations

What precautions for allergy sufferers and asthmatics at the time of deconfinement?

"Patients with asthma and allergies to pollens must continue their background treatment more than ever at this time" insists Dr Sophie Silcret-Grieu , allergist. Inhalers but also oral antihistamines, which limit the release of histamine in the body. "We must not interrupt the basic treatment (under the pretext that we feel good because less in contact with the pollens outside) adds the allergist. On the other hand "the confinement could have had more impact on those allergic to dust, dust mites and animal hair".

At the end of confinement "given the presence of pollen, we must be extra vigilant, she recommends, do not forget to find out about the pollen present and to which the person is more sensitive". The RNSA (National Aerobiological Surveillance Network) provides information on the circulation of pollen via its website or the dedicated smartphone application. In the event of allergic manifestations (rhinitis, watery eyes, sneezing attacks), it is advisable to make an appointment with a doctor or an allergist in order to be prescribed an appropriate treatment, and to help differentiate allergic symptoms from allergic symptoms. of Covid-19. Most specialists offer online teleconsultations by appointment.

How can deconfinement have an impact on people allergic to pollen?

Allergic reactions and asthma attacks are likely to be more numerous in people sensitive to pollen, warns the RNSA which warns of a very high concentration of grass pollen at the beginning of June. "Allergics will have to take even more precautions (like washing their hair after going out, or airing their homes early in the morning or late at night)" adds the network. In the event of an asthma attack, it is necessary to call your doctor and follow the appropriate treatment. If certain anti-inflammatory corticosteroids are not recommended in the midst of a coronavirus epidemic, this is not the case for inhaled corticosteroid treatments prescribed to asthmatics.

What are the risks of Covid-19 for allergy sufferers and asthmatics?

Since May 11, the date of gradual deconfinement, the virus has not disappeared. Should people with allergies and/or asthma be worried? For Dr. Sophie Silcret-Grieu "moderate allergies and asthmatics whose state of health is well controlled by an appropriate background treatment do not have any particular risks vis-à-vis the new coronavirus. They are advised to "Be vigilant to their allergic reaction and consult a doctor who can increase the treatment during this period", if necessary.

If the bronchodilator has been needed more often than usual, and if he has been woken at night with difficulty breathing, these signs show that the asthma is not controlled and that the respiratory condition deteriorates. It is essential to consult the attending physician or pulmonologist. In case of emergency: the attack does not go away despite the bronchodilator, there is unusual shortness of breath, tightness, significant respiratory discomfort, call 15.

Do asthmatics have to wear a face mask?

Yes. People with asthma should wear a face mask to protect themselves and others from infection with the novel coronavirus, but should take special care in choosing their mask. "A mask that is too airtight, type FFP2 will be difficult to endure for a long time. With this type of mask, the person tends to breathe more quickly and to hyperventilate" indicates Dr Sophie Silcret-Grieu. For people who suffer from respiratory (or cardiovascular) problems, caution is therefore advised when choosing their mask, "preferably of the surgical type, but the best thing is to try several models and adopt the one that suits the better, recommends the doctor. A mask is useful for them, because with the intense circulation of pollen it can be a little protective, and will also protect other people in the event of a sneeze."

Thanks to Dr Sophie Silcret-Grieu allergist in Paris.

To contact the Asthma & Allergies Association, a toll-free number has been set up: 0800 19 20 21 (free call from a landline)