How to defeat hay fever in Japan

As spring approaches, many of us welcome Japan’s ever-changing landscape with open arms. Warm weather and flowers bloom make it a great time for outdoor activities. Unless, of course, you are one of the 40% of people with hay fever.

Japanese cedar tree pollen

Understand the query

Hay fever was not common in Japan until the early 1960s. After World War II, reforestation policies led to dense hidden forests and Japanese cypress trees, an important resource for the construction industry. When these trees mature, they start to produce a lot of pollen. Things are still getting worse as trees produce more pollen.

Cedar and Hinoki pollen: The main allergen in Japan

The main culprits behind Japanese hay fever are the pollen of Japanese cedar (Sugi) and cypress (Hinoki) trees.

• Japanese Cedar: In western and eastern Japan, including Tokyo, the hay fever season peaks from the second half of March to the first half of April. Then drop over the next six to eight weeks.
• Japanese Cypress: Hinoki’s pollination period lags behind Sugi’s pollination period, extending the allergy season into spring.

Common hay fever symptoms in Japan

The symptoms of hay fever in Japan reflect the symptoms experienced globally, but can be strengthened due to the height of pollen quantity. Common symptoms include:

• Sneeze, runny nose or nasal congestion.
• Itchy, watery or red eyes.
• Sore throat, continuous cough and itchy skin.
• Fatigue and taste reduction.
• In severe cases, you may experience symptoms similar to asthma or chronic sinus infection.

Effective hay fever therapy in Japan

Japanese pharmacies offer some key over-the-counter (OTC) medications to deal with hay fever symptoms, including:

• Antihistamines: Brands such as Allegra and Claritin are often used to control sneezing, itching and runny nose.
• Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasonex help clear your nasal passages.

Practical prevention tips

In order to minimize grass symptoms, the Japanese government recommends the following:

• Wearing a mask: A high-density mask that is tightly matched with the contour of the face can effectively block pollen.
• Choose your clothes wisely: Wearing fabrics such as wool means pollen can be buried. Choose a smoother fabric.
• Regular cleaning: A clean living space helps remove pollen. Clean things like mesh curtains regularly.
• Stay indoors: On days with high pollen count, consider indoor activities such as visiting a museum, shopping center or relaxing at home to minimize exposure. The government website also recommends working from home, so tell your boss.

Recommended Japanese Hay fever relief products

There are several products in Japan that can help manage hay fever symptoms:

• Pollen Guard Glasses: These special glasses prevent pollen from reaching the eyes. They basically look like regular glasses, but with extra plastic. Some more expensive types look more like goggles.
• Anti-allergic room spray: Spray it around your room to neutralize pollen.
• Air Purifier: Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove pollen particles from indoor environments.

Long-term strategies and medical advice

When to see a doctor in Japan

If OTC medications and preventive measures don’t relieve your Kafunsho, or if you have particularly severe symptoms that can cause serious discomfort or complications, you may wish to see a doctor. Some serious symptoms include:

• Despite the medication, I am still trying to breathe through my nose.
• Antihistamines do not improve redness and itching.
• Gasp, shortness of breath or cough.

For Japanese English-speaking doctors, websites such as Japanese healthcare information can provide useful catalogs.

Allergy tests and immunotherapy

For those experiencing severe or prolonged allergies, testing and immunotherapy may be viable options.

• Allergy tests: Japanese clinics provide blood or skin prick tests to determine specific allergens. Prices vary, but usually range between 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen. These tests may be covered by the National Health Insurance.
• Immunotherapy: known as “hypertensive therapy,” this therapy involves gradual exposure to a small amount of allergen to enhance tolerance. It usually requires about three years of regular injections or tablets, but can provide long-term relief.

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