Hay Fever in Japan: A Springtime Struggle

Spring is the season when temperatures rise and cherry blossoms bloom. However, for many people in Japan, it is also a time of seasonal struggle—花粉症: kafunsho(hay fever). With symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, some even find spring difficult to fully enjoy. I am one of them.

In this article, we explore hay fever, a seasonal hallmark in Japan, along with its causes, symptoms, and ways to cope with it. We also touch on how it relates to the journey of learning Japanese.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, most commonly caused in Japan by cedar and cypress trees.

The human body has an immune system that protects it from foreign substances. However, in people with hay fever, this immune system overreacts to pollen, mistakenly identifying it as a harmful substance. As a result, the body triggers symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes in an attempt to eliminate the allergens.

Common symptoms include:

・ Frequent sneezing

・ A runny or stuffy nose

・ Itchy or red eyes

・ Throat irritation or discomfort

Although these symptoms may seem similar to a common cold, they tend to last much longer.

In recent years, it is estimated that around half of Japan’s population suffers from hay fever. Let’s take a look at some of the possible reasons behind the increasing number of patients.

One of the most widely accepted reasons is the post-World War II afforestation policy. At the time, large areas of Japan were planted with cedar trees to secure a stable supply of timber, as cedar grows relatively quickly and is suitable for construction materials. As a result, cedar forests spread across the country. However, as these trees matured and produced large amounts of pollen, it is believed that the number of hay fever patients began to increase.

Urbanization and changes in lifestyle are also considered contributing factors. As the surface area covered by asphalt and concrete has increased, pollen can no longer be easily absorbed into the ground, allowing it to remain in the air for longer periods. In addition, air pollution, stress, and dietary changes are also thought to be linked to the growing number of people with allergic tendencies.

In other words, hay fever is not just a natural phenomenon, but also an issue closely related to people’s lifestyles and changes in society.

The symptoms of hay fever vary from person to person, but they commonly affect the nose and eyes.

Typical symptoms include frequent sneezing, which can occur continuously and sometimes interfere with daily life. A clear, watery nasal discharge is also characteristic and tends to persist. When the nose becomes congested, it can cause difficulty breathing, which may lead to reduced concentration.

Eye symptoms can also be quite severe, including intense itching, redness, and excessive tearing. Some people even find it difficult to wear contact lenses during this time.

Furthermore, some people experience itching in the throat and skin, as well as a feeling of mental fog or fatigue, indicating that symptoms can affect the entire body. Poor sleep quality can also impact daytime performance, reducing overall productivity and concentration.

Hay fever goes beyond being a health issue and is widely recognized as a social problem that causes significant economic losses. Symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes can reduce concentration and efficiency, leading to lower productivity at work.

In addition, increased absenteeism and early departures affect business operations, while medical expenses and the cost of over-the-counter medications also place a financial burden on households. It is pointed out that these direct and indirect costs accumulate, resulting in economic losses that reach hundreds of billions of yen for society as a whole.

As such, hay fever is not just about sneezing; it is a condition that can significantly reduce one’s quality of life.

It is almost impossible to completely avoid hay fever; however, there are ways to ease the symptoms.

The basic principle is to prevent pollen from entering the body. When going outside, wearing glasses and a mask can help protect the eyes and respiratory system from pollen. There are also specially designed masks that are made to block fine pollen particles.

Be mindful of what to wear. Clothing made of materials such as wool tends to attract pollen, so it is better to choose fabrics with smooth surfaces. It is also essential to remove pollen from your clothes before entering the house.

Additionally, the appropriate use of medication is commonly recommended. It is important to choose treatments that suit each person’s symptoms and use them accordingly, including antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops. In recent years, it has become easier to access high-quality and effective over-the-counter medications.

Furthermore, pollen-blocking spray products applied directly to the face have gained popularity. By simply spraying them on the face, they help prevent pollen from adhering to the skin. Because they are easy to use, more people are incorporating them into their pre-outing routine.

There are still many other measures you can take, such as using air purifiers, avoiding drying laundry outdoors, and maintaining a regular lifestyle to help support a balanced immune system.

For foreign residents living in Japan, hay fever can be an unexpected cultural experience. Even while learning the language, it is a topic that naturally comes up in daily life, and understanding it can be very useful.

For example, phrases describing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes are used frequently in everyday conversations. This can also be a great opportunity to learn practical Japanese used in real-life situations, such as at pharmacies or in medical consultations.

At TCJ, students can learn practical Japanese that is useful in everyday life. In addition to classroom learning, they can naturally develop their language skills through topics closely connected to life in Japan.

Spring can be a challenging season for some people; however, with the right knowledge and preventive measures, its impact can be reduced. It is also a topic that is hard to avoid when living in Japan.

Taking this opportunity to learn more about hay fever can not only help you navigate daily life, but also improve your Japanese skills.