Pollen Allergy
What is Pollen Allergy?
Pollen allergy, also known as hay fever, is an allergic reaction to pollen. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants, trees, and grasses as part of their reproductive cycle. When the body encounters pollen, it can mistakingly regard it as harmful and activate the body’s immune system to initiate an allergic response.
Symptoms of Pollen Allergy
The most common symptoms of pollen allergy include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Coughing
- Headache
- Wheezing
- Sore throat
Triggers of Pollen Allergy
Pollen allergy is caused by exposure to pollens from trees, grasses, or weeds, which can be triggered by environmental conditions such as wind, humidity, and temperature. Pollen counts are at their highest in the morning and on warm, dry days.
Treatment Options
The most effective ways to treat pollen allergies are to avoid the pollen that triggers your allergic response and to take medications to control symptoms. Over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids, can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
For those with severe allergic reactions, subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy may be recommended. This treatment involves regular injections or drops containing small amounts of allergens and can help desensitize the body to the effects of pollen.