According to Hospital Universitario Vithas Las Palmas, the humid climate and mild temperatures of the Canary Islands favor the year-round presence of dust mites, making them the primary trigger for allergic symptoms in the archipelago. This situation contrasts with the national trend, where an intensification of spring allergies is expected due to recent winter rainfall that has led to greater pollen dispersion.
The Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology has warned of a generalized increase in seasonal pollen for this period, although its impact will be less in the Canary Islands. Nevertheless, Dr. Marta Pérez Montoya, an allergology specialist at Vithas Las Palmas, notes that pollens are becoming more allergenic. She attributes this phenomenon to climate change, which, with rising temperatures and CO2 concentrations, promotes the production of denser and more potent pollen in certain plant species, in addition to extending the pollination season.
“"Pollens are becoming more allergenic. Climate change plays an important role in this phenomenon, as increasing temperatures and CO2 concentrations are favoring the production of denser and more potent pollen in certain plant species. Furthermore, the pollination season is getting longer, exposing patients to allergens for a longer period of time."
In the Canary Islands, spring can worsen symptoms in patients sensitive to grass and olive pollens, especially in the higher and rural areas of Tenerife and Las Palmas, where concentrations of between 250 and 500 grains/m³ of grass are estimated between April and May. However, recent rains could delay this period. Despite this, Dr. Pérez Montoya reiterates that dust mites remain the main cause of allergies in the islands, affecting the population throughout the year.
The incidence and severity of allergies increase annually, affecting people of all ages, including cases of late-onset in adulthood. Those with a family history, allergic rhinitis, asthma, or atopic dermatitis, as well as children, young adults, and residents of urban or rural areas near olive groves, are at higher risk. It is recommended to consult a specialist if symptoms are persistent, affect quality of life, or do not respond to usual treatment, or if severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties appear.
To mitigate symptoms, it is advisable to avoid allergen exposure, limit outdoor activities during pollen peaks (morning and evening), protect the home, use masks, and consult an allergist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
