A recent study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice has confirmed a strong link between diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) and the severity of allergic rhinitis.
Researchers found that individuals exposed to high levels of traffic-related air pollution experienced more intense sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes compared to those in cleaner environments.
The study tracked over 1,500 allergy sufferers in urban and suburban areas, measuring their symptom severity alongside real-time air quality data.
Results showed that on days with elevated DEP levels, participants reported a 30% increase in symptom intensity, even when pollen counts remained stable. This suggests that pollution doesn’t just trigger allergies—it amplifies them.
Mechanistically, DEPs appear to disrupt the nasal mucosal barrier, making it easier for allergens like pollen and mold spores to penetrate and provoke immune responses.
Additionally, diesel particles can bind to allergens, creating “super-allergens” that trigger stronger reactions.
Public health advocates are calling for stricter emissions regulations and expanded urban green zones to mitigate this effect. In the meantime, allergists recommend that patients in polluted areas use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters indoors and wear masks on high-pollution days.
This research underscores the need to address air quality as part of comprehensive allergy management.
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