Oak allergy

Oak allergy (Quercus) is a common late-spring allergen in continental Croatia. Oak flowers from April to May, and although its pollen is not the most aggressive, the enormous amount that a single oak releases can cause intense symptoms in allergy sufferers. In Croatia it is widespread across the entire mainland - the oak forests of Slavonia and the north-west push oak pollen to high levels every year.

Symptoms of oak allergy include sneezing, a blocked nose, watery eyes, coughing and a feeling of fatigue. In sensitive people with asthma, breathing difficulties also occur. Yellow deposits of oak pollen are often visible on cars and windows in May - a visual sign of the season's peak.

The oak season lasts from mid-April to the end of May, peaking in early May. In Mediterranean Croatia the season is shifted 1-2 weeks earlier. Oak flowers at almost the same time as birch, creating a double 'hit' for allergy sufferers.

Oak is the dominant tree species in continental Croatia - especially in Slavonia (the Slavonian oak forest is world-famous), the Posavina region, and the forests around Zagreb and Karlovac. In Dalmatia the holm oak (Quercus ilex) prevails - a Mediterranean allergen that flowers earlier.

During May, avoid forested areas and parks with oak trees. Keep windows closed during the day and use air conditioning with a HEPA filter. Antihistamines should be on hand from late April. Be ready for yellow pollen deposits on window sills - surface hygiene helps reduce exposure.

Oak pollen cross-reacts with other Fagaceae species (beech, chestnut). It rarely triggers OAS reactions to food.

Other allergens