Caution time for asthma & allergy patients

Allergy and asthma patients in Jaipur should be careful for next one and half month as this period is going to be a tough time for them. As an annual ritual, once again during the increased pollen activities, last week, Holoptelea tree pollen has been detected in the air of Jaipur. This is the most allergenic plant pollen of the city. Last year it was detected on February 14, 2017. 

“Burkard pollen counter, a pollen entrapment machine installed with Asthma Bhawan at Vidyadhar Nagar which detects high pollen in the air has indicated high pollen counts in the air,” Dr Nishtha Singh, senior chest physician and executive director Asthma Bhawan said. “These pollen are from a tree called Holoptelea Integrifolia. This is the most allergenic plant pollen of the city Jaipur. This pollen remains in high proportions for a duration of 1 to 1.5 month,” she added.

Holoptelea Integrifolia tree is also known as Indian Elm or Jungle cork Tree. It is popularly called as Bandar Ki Roti, Chilbil, Kanju, Papadi and by many other names in local languages. 

The tree flowers in January-February months and it fruits from March to May. This tree has medicinal uses include treatment for Rheumatism, ring worm, diabetes, leprosy etc. In Jaipur, this tree is commonly seen in Central Park, on road sides across the city and in many parks as well. 

“Sensitive patients are advised to avoid going outside in morning and evening.If necessary morning walkers, scooter/bike riders should wear a thick triple layer mask.In case of complaint, consult the doctor. This allergy can be diagnosed by SPT test and can be treated by developing antibodies through immune therapy,” Dr MK Gupta, senior chest and allergy specialist at Aanch Hospital said.

REASON TO WORRY

As per the estimates, at least 30% population in North India and 10% population across India suffers from allergy. Experts say that roughly 40-60% of pollen in the air is caused by Holoptelea Integrifolia. This pollen remains in high proportions for a duration of 1 to 1.5 month.