For most the arrival of spring signals a better spirit, mental state and physical state, well summed up by the phrase that one's blood seems to alter. However, this affirmation could also be negative, related to the appearance and aggravation of some conditions associated with springtime.

How to prevent allergies
One of these problems is that of allergies, and not only those provoked by pollen, although these are clearly the most common. In developed countries around 15% of the population are estimated to suffer from hayfever, and in countries such as Spain the worst offenders are gramineous plants such as olive trees, beech trees, plane trees and oaks. The allergies are caused by the contact of a certain type of immune cells with the proteins of the pollen and the subsequent liberation of a substance, histamine, that causes sneezing, eye irritation, throat disorders, headaches, itching and breathing problems. In addition to using antihistamines, corticoids and vaccines, allergy sufferers should follow some basic steps to try to reduce the reaction to a minimum. The basic piece of advice is to avoid contact with pollen by closing the windows of the car and of the house at night, reducing their outdoor activities first thing in the morning and last thing in the evening, which is when the pollen count is at its highest, using sunglasses and not drying clothes outside.

In spring sun allergies also begin appearing since we start exposing ourselves to it with more frequency and intensity. Food allergies also increase, in part due to the contamination caused by the pollen hydrocarbons in plants and edible fruit. The latter are difficult to prevent and can only be treated once the reaction is known. In the case of sun allergies, the use of sun blocks, moderate exposure, avoiding the middle part of the day and visiting a specialist for correct diagnosis are the best measures to take.

Watch out for depressions
Spring is also the time of year when depressions and bipolar disorders become more intense. In fact, it is estimated that some 5% of patients have a relapse. Experts believe the phenomenon is related to the increase in sunlight and the chemical changes it provokes in the brain, which would explain why spring and autumn are the times of year when most suicide attempts are made. Some especially sensitive individuals may also note a certain sadness and weariness. However, it should be left to the doctor to diagnose whether or not this is a sign of a major depression. Loss of motivation and interest, sadness, pessimism, difficulties sleeping and concentrating, digestive disorders are all signs that should prompt the alarm bells to ring.

What is spring asthenia?
Spring asthenia is provoked by a reduction in one type of endorphins (substances that cause wellbeing) that affects one in ten people. If you notice a significant loss of energy it is best to consult a doctor to discard other possibilities and to be prescribed products such as royal jelly, ginseng and other reinvigorating natural substances. It is best to devote a regular number of hours to exercise and sleep, and to have a well-balanced, low-fat diet. Asthenia has a limited duration coinciding with the start of spring; if the symptoms persist you may be suffering from another kind of disorder.

There are other disorders aggravated by the arrival of spring. These include fungal infections due to the increased number of visits to the swimming pool and increased sporting activity, muscular and rheumatic disorders due to increased humidity and rainfall and also more cases of malnutrition due to inadequate diets aimed at reducing the spare tyres that winter coats no longer conceal.