Pollen Allergy

A pollen allergy, or hay fever, is an allergic reaction caused by the powder that plants, including trees, grasses and weeds release seasonally as they grow. Pollen allergy sufferers often experience symptoms similar to a cold, including sneezing and itchy or watery eyes.

People experience pollen allergies at different times of the year, depending on what type of plant is producing the irritating pollen. During the spring most trees and grasses produce pollen, while in the fall weeds are more likely to blame for your discomfort. By identifying what types of pollen you are most susceptible to, you can better prevent and manage reactions.

If your pollen allergy symptoms are making it difficult for you to work or go about normal activities, or over the counter medication is not working well, you may want to call your doctor to discuss other treatment options. You should also talk to your doctor if you have asthma, as hay fever can worsen your condition.

Similar to other allergies, pollen allergies and hay fever arise when your body identifies a certain substance as harmful and responds similar to how it would a virus, like a cold. This may cause your sinuses to go into overdrive, producing symptoms like congestion and sneezing.

In addition to asking you questions about your symptoms and medical history, your allergist may use a variety of tools to diagnose and confirm if you have an allergy to pollen:

• Skin allergy test – Possible allergen samples are applied to skin and then observed for reaction
• Blood test

The best treatment for a plant allergy is to limit your exposure to the offending pollen producer. However, since it may be difficult to avoid all exposure, your provider may also recommend one of these treatments to manage your symptoms:

• Allergy immunotherapy, also known as an allergy shot, is a long-term treatment that reduces your sensitivity to substances that cause allergies. Many people find that their allergies improve so much that they can stop taking their regular allergy medications. 

Prescription and over-the-counter medications may also be recommended, including:

• Oral Antihistamines
• Oral Decongestants
• Intranasal Corticosteroids
• Saline Nasal rinse

The best way to prevent hay fever and an allergic reaction from occurring is avoiding opening windows seasonally, vacuuming regularly, taking showers after being outside for prolonged periods of time during pollen season. 

Pollen allergies and hay fever symptoms are similar to the symptoms you may experience during a cold, including:

• Irritated, red, itchy, or watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Puffy or bruised-looking skin under your eyes
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sore throat caused by post-nasal drip