Almaty Has Long Been Considered One of Kazakhstan's Most Allergy-Prone Cities, Says Expert

Almaty's allergy crisis worsens as pollen triggers surge among children

According to estimates, between 20% and 40% of Almaty's residents suffer from allergies, notes a local physician. Most patients are young people and children, though allergies are also common among older generations. Key symptoms include a runny nose, nasal congestion, watery eyes, sneezing, and occasionally coughing or shortness of breath.

The Main Problem, Doctors Say, Is That Residents Mistake Allergies for the Common Cold and Begin Self-Treating Incorrectly

"Seasonal allergies and viral respiratory infections are often confused because there are no uniquely distinct symptoms," explains Tair Nurpeisov, an allergist. "Allergic conditions can mimic other illnesses. However, those who have suffered from allergies for years usually notice that flare-ups occur around the same time each year. If symptoms appear for the first time, it's best to see a doctor rather than starting treatment with antibiotics."

Self-Medication with Antibiotics Is a Particular Concern for Specialists, Who Report a Rise in Severe Complications Since the Pandemic

"People prone to allergies face a significantly higher risk of drug allergies," warns the immunologist. "Reactions can range from hives and angioedema to anaphylactic shock. Unfortunately, since the pandemic, doctors have encountered such cases far more frequently."

The Professor Highlights Another Alarming Trend: Allergies Are Increasingly Affecting Younger Children

"We are now seeing allergic rhinitis in children as young as two or three," the doctor states. "Parents must avoid treating every symptom as an infection and refrain from giving children antibiotics without a prescription. Consulting a pediatrician or allergist is crucial to accurately identify the cause of the illness."

Tree and Grass Pollen Are the Primary Allergens in Almaty, According to the Specialist

Birch, poplar, timothy grass, couch grass, and ryegrass are the main culprits, with their pollen traveling vast distances and circulating widely in the city's air. While modern medicine may not yet offer a complete cure for allergies, it can significantly improve patients' quality of life, the professor notes.

"Allergy treatment typically follows several stages," the physician explains. "First, symptoms are relieved with antihistamines like levocetirizine, which reduces itching, sneezing, and mucosal swelling. Next, intranasal corticosteroid sprays—safe and minimally absorbed—are used. The final stage is allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), the gold standard in treatment, which can achieve up to 90% efficacy."

Now that spring has arrived, it's time to pay closer attention to your health—and those with allergies should be especially vigilant as the blooming season approaches. Doctors recommend avoiding walks in dry, windy weather, wearing masks, and seeking professional medical advice at the first signs of illness rather than heading to the pharmacy for antibiotics. While spring in Almaty is undeniably beautiful, it can pose serious risks for allergy sufferers who take their symptoms lightly.