TOKYO, Feb 10 (News On Japan) –
The arrival of pollen season has as soon as once more begun to have an effect on giant elements of Japan, however new analysis geared toward stopping cedar pollen from dispersing is elevating hopes that the long run may carry reduction for thousands and thousands of victims, with scientists engaged on a technique to wither solely the male flowers of cedar timber and cease pollen at its supply.
According to Kaihei Oshio, a professor at Tokyo University of Agriculture, a mission to wither solely male cedar flowers so they can not launch pollen is now below manner, with sensible use focused in about two years. The principal impediment stays price. There are roughly 980,000 hectares nationwide designated as precedence areas that closely have an effect on city areas, and the tactic at present prices about 100,000 yen per hectare to use. Treating even simply these precedence areas would require round 100 billion yen yearly.
At first look, the expense seems substantial, however estimates counsel that financial losses brought on by pollen—corresponding to diminished productiveness at work and fewer outings—quantity to roughly 245 billion yen per day, based on a Panasonic research. Viewed in that context, the annual price of countermeasures could also be comparatively modest. Commentators be aware that when medical bills are additionally taken under consideration, the cost-effectiveness may very well be excessive.
Almomem Abdoola, a linguist and professor at Tokai University’s School of International Studies, mentioned he developed hay fever instantly after dwelling in Japan for about 13 years. While allergy symptoms exist in Egypt, he famous they don’t attain the extent of a nationwide social phenomenon as seen in Japan. People could have allergy symptoms to sandstorms or yellow mud, however there is no such thing as a seasonal surge of cedar pollen. Abdoola mentioned he had by no means even heard of hay fever earlier than coming to Japan and initially thought he had influenza when signs first appeared.
Experts warn that the 2026 pollen season could carry stronger signs, significantly on the Pacific facet of Japan the place dry situations have endured. Kimihiro Okubo of Nippon Medical School, a number one specialist in hay fever remedy, mentioned dry air could make pollen lighter and simpler to disperse, whereas additionally weakening the mucosal barrier and probably intensifying itching.
Medication must be chosen based on signs. Sneezing, runny nostril and itchy eyes are brought on by histamine stimulating sensory nerves, and over-the-counter oral antihistamines are really helpful. When signs worsen and nasal congestion develops, leukotrienes stimulate blood vessels and trigger irritation of the mucous membranes. In such circumstances, nasal sprays are more practical, supplied they’re used at acceptable intervals.
Proper nose-blowing method can also be essential. Okubo advises blowing one nostril at a time slowly and never too steadily. Blowing forcefully may cause nosebleeds or ear ache, whereas stuffing tissues into the nostril can injury mucous membranes and worsen congestion. Sniffing mucus again into the throat could result in throat irritation and even middle-ear infections. Warming the nostril with a heat towel can enhance blood circulation and ease congestion, and taking a shower may additionally assist.
Skin issues brought on by pollen are one other concern. Rubbing pores and skin with pollen on it may grind pollen particles into the pores and skin and trigger irritation, so washing it off completely slightly than wiping is really helpful. Even for these with out hay fever, pollen can penetrate the pores and skin and contribute to spots or dullness. Touching up make-up whereas pollen stays on the pores and skin can worsen irritation, making preventive measures corresponding to pollen-blocking sprays, masks and glasses essential in the course of the season.
Source: TBS