Pollen is a substance found in plants such as grass, weeds, and trees. It is needed for fertilisation to occur, so each plant species can reproduce and survive. Pollen is spread by the wind and insects alike. Although vital for plant survival, it is unfortunately also a very common cause of allergies in humans.
Pollen in the atmosphere can easily be inhaled during the season when pollen grains are at their highest levels. Therefore, pollen allergy can be described as a seasonal condition, with many sufferers getting some rest bite from their symptoms during the winter months.
Symptoms of pollen allergy typically occur in the ears, nose, throat, and airways. The membranes of the eyes are also often affected. Itching in the ears is common, and a runny nose that can be accompanied by nasal congestion is also regularly experienced.
Throat irritation and soreness, which can lead to a chronic cough, can also be present. Coughing can also be caused by lung irritation and inflammation, and this can lead to wheezing and breathlessness.
The eyes can become watery, itchy, and red due to continuous irritation. All these symptoms are synonymous with the allergic condition better known as hay fever. This can last for up to seven months of the year when plants and trees are in full bloom.
The cause of pollen allergy is all down to an immune response that is triggered by pollen molecules entering the body. The immune system produces antibodies to help detect and fight these allergens.
This sequence of events can lead to the development of inflammation in the body due to the release of a chemical called histamine. It is this histamine response that contributes to the many symptoms associated with allergies.
Those that have asthma or other lung conditions are at risk of aggravating such pre-existing health conditions if they are also allergic to pollen. There is an increased risk of asthma attacks, breathlessness, and breathing difficulties becoming more frequent because of pollen allergy in these high-risk groups.
Diagnosis of pollen allergy involves discussing symptoms with a healthcare professional so that they can identify a trigger. If the symptoms appear at a certain time of year that coincides with high levels of pollen, then this can be a major reason to suspect that a pollen allergy is the cause of most of the symptoms.
A referral to a clinical immunologist who can carry out some lab investigations, such as blood tests, can confirm the presence of a pollen allergy.
Treatment for pollen allergies usually consists of prescribing antihistamines, which can block the release of this chemical by the body.
Nasal corticosteroids can reduce inflammation in the nose, whilst decongestants and inhalers can aid with breathing.
Avoiding the allergy trigger is the first step toward preventing pollen allergies. Staying indoors is not practical for most sufferers who have appointments and regular work to attend, even though it does help.
However, with this option, windows must remain closed so that the pollen does not enter the household from outside. If staying in is not an option, then mask-wearing and eye protection such as sunglasses can help.