Pollen allergies affect tens of millions of Americans every year. Pollen is a fine yellowish powder that is transported from plant to plant by the wind, birds, insects or other animals. The spread of pollen helps fertilize plants, but it can also mean misery for seasonal allergy sufferers.
Symptoms
When you breathe in pollen-heavy air, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Itchy throat and eyes
- Wheezing
Increased coughing and wheezing can also lead to aggressive asthma symptoms.
Causes
Various types of pollen can lead to pollen allergies. These include:
Birch Pollen Allergies
One of the most common airborne allergens in the spring is birch pollen. Small grains of pollen are scattered by the wind when trees bloom. Up to five million pollen grains can be produced from just a single birch tree, traveling over 100 yards from the original tree.
Oak Pollen Allergies
Oak trees also send pollen into the air in the spring. It stays in the air for longer periods of time but is considered mildly allergenic compared to other pollen types.
Grass Pollen Allergies
During the summer months, grass is the primary trigger of pollen allergies. Compared to other pollen types, it causes some of the most severe and difficult-to-treat symptoms.
Ragweed Allergies
Ragweed allergies are most active between the late spring and fall months. They are the most common allergies among weed pollens. This type of pollen can travel hundreds of miles and can even withstand the winter season.
Treatment
There are several ways to treat pollen allergies. OTC medication, avoidance strategies and more can reduce the amount of pollen that enters your home. In addition, allergy shots can help build resistance to pollen. Tablets can also be used but must be taken 12 weeks before the symptoms begin to reduce symptoms.
There are many different types of pollen that can add to a high pollen count overall. Even if there is a high pollen count, it does not automatically mean you are allergic to a specific pollen.
If you or your child are suffering from seasonal allergies from pollen, Contact Northeast Allergy, Asthma & Immunology today to find the best possible treatment plan.
