🌳 Pollen Allergies in Bangalore: Why Foreign Trees Are Making You Sick – And What You Can Do About It

🌆 Garden City or Allergy Capital?

Once called India’s “Garden City,” Bangalore is now witnessing a sharp rise in pollen allergies. In just five years, hospitals have reported a 25-fold increase in allergy cases.

Patients often visit my clinic complaining of:

• Constant sneezing

• Nasal congestion

• Itchy eyes

• Fatigue
  

…and they have no idea what's causing it.

The surprising culprit?The very trees planted to beautify our streets.

🌿 The Root of the Problem: Exotic Trees Across Bangalore

Over the years, the horticulture department and BBMP introduced hundreds of non-native tree species into the city.

While visually appealing, these exotic trees are foreign to our immune systems, triggering allergic responses.

Top offenders include:

• Copper Pod (Peltophorum) – Native to tropical Asia

• Gulmohar (Delonix regia) – From Madagascar

• Rain Tree (Samanea saman) – From Central America

• Tabebuia & Jacaranda – From South America

• Parthenium (Congress Grass) – A toxic weed from the U.S.
  

🌿 Parthenium alone affects nearly 40% of Bangalore’s population.

🤧 What Are Pollen Allergies?

Also known as allergic rhinitis, these allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to tiny airborne pollen particles.

Common symptoms:

• Repeated sneezing

• Runny or blocked nose

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Headaches and fatigue

• Cough or sore throat
  

➡️ These symptoms often worsen at night and can disrupt sleep and reduce daily productivity.

📈 Why High-Rise Residents Suffer More

Patients living in apartments and high-rises often report more severe symptoms.

Why?

• Wind carries pollen grains upward

• Lack of tree cover = less natural filtration

• Buildings trap pollen inside without proper air purification
  

🕒 When Are Allergies Worst in Bangalore?

• 🔴 High Risk: May & June (dry, windy pre-monsoon)

• 🟠 Moderate Risk: March & April (early flowering)

• 🟢 Low Risk: July to September (monsoon clears pollen)
  

🏠 Home Remedies for Pollen Relief

While medical care is key, you can ease symptoms at home with these natural options:

🌬️ Nasal Saline Rinse

Flush allergens using a neti pot with saline made from boiled + cooled water, salt, and baking soda.

🌿 Steam Inhalation

Use eucalyptus or peppermint oil twice daily to reduce nasal congestion.

🍯 Raw Local Honey

May help build gradual resistance to local pollens.

🍵 Herbal Helpers

• Ginger tea – Soothes the throat

• Turmeric milk – Natural anti-inflammatory

• Green tea – Mild antihistamine

• Garlic & onions – Immune boosters
  

🛡️ Preventive Tips to Minimize Exposure

👃 Keep Indoor Air Clean

• Use HEPA air purifiers

• Wash bedding weekly in hot water

• Vacuum with allergen filters

• Keep windows closed during mornings
  

😷 Protect Yourself Outdoors

• Wear N95 masks outside

• Use sunglasses & hats to shield your eyes/hair

• Shower and change after outdoor exposure
  

🚨 When to See a Doctor

Consult an ENT specialist if:

• Symptoms persist over 3 months

• You have frequent sinus infections

• Allergies are affecting your sleep, work, or breathing
  

👨‍⚕️ Expert Care for Lasting Relief

With decades of ENT experience, I offer:

✅ Allergy testing to identify specific triggers ✅ Tailored anti-allergy treatment plans ✅ Endoscopic nasal procedures (minimally invasive) ✅ Ongoing management for long-term relief

🌟 Take Charge of Your Health

Don’t let pollen allergies confine you indoors.

With the right care, allergy symptoms can be controlled—or even eliminated.

📞 Book your appointment today—and breathe easy tomorrow.

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Prashanth R. Reddy

ENT & Endoscopic Sinus Surgeon

📍 Dr Prashanth R Reddy | ENT Doctor – Sarjapura Road -

🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Weekdays)

🕐 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM (Saturday)

📍 Dr Prashanth Reddy | ENT Specialist – Koramangala-

🕐 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Monday–Saturday)

🕐 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Sunday)