Pollen Allergies: What You Need to Know

For plants, pollen is absolutely essential. This yellow powder can easily be carried by the wind or transported from plant to plant by an animal or insect and it works to fertilize the plants and help them grow. While plants may love a fresh coating of pollen, humans often feel otherwise. Millions of people across the globe suffer from pollen allergies.

Pollen Season: What You Need to Know

Most people find that their pollen allergy symptoms are worse in the spring. This is due to the fact that many trees and grasses shed pollen during the spring months when many plants need to be fertilized. However, depending on the type of pollen that you are allergic to, you may find that your allergy symptoms are worse in the late summer or early fall.

The Most Common Pollen Allergy Symptoms

Pollen allergy symptoms can vary based on the type of pollen that you are allergic to and the severity of your allergy. These are some of the most common pollen allergy symptoms to be aware of:

• Itchy and water eyes.
• Nasal drainage and congestion.
• Sneezing.
• Scratching throat.
• Coughing or wheezing.

Treatment Options for People with Pollen Allergies

If you suspect that you may have a pollen allergy, then you should work closely with your physician or with an allergist in order to verify the allergy. A medical professional can work with you to identify the allergy and also narrow down the time period during which you will be most likely to have an allergic reaction. Understanding the time frame of your worst symptoms will allow you to get the most effective treatment. Some treatment options that you may consider include:

• Taking over-the-counter allergy medication. Those who suffer from mild-to-moderate seasonal allergies often find that over-the-counter medication helps minimize the most irritating symptoms. If you decide to take this type of medication, make sure to take it every day during the entirety of your allergy season in order to get the best results.
• Taking prescription medication. In the event of severe allergies, your doctor may prescribe a high-strength allergy medication for you. Your doctor will provide you with information about when you should start taking the medication and when you should stop. Many people begin taking prescription medication several weeks in advance of their expected allergy season as this helps their body to build up a resistance.
• Receiving an allergy shot. Some people find that an allergy shot is the best way to effectively reduce or minimize their pollen allergy symptoms. Your doctor or allergist will tell you if an allergy shot is the right option for you.

In addition to taking any necessary medication, people who suffer from pollen allergies also will want to keep their windows closed during the spring months. As disappointing as it may be to keep the house shut up tight when those warm spring breezes pick up, it's important to prevent pollen from getting into your home. Pollen can easily enter through screens and cracked doors and it is difficult to control your pollen allergy symptoms when the powder is embedded in your carpet and furniture.