The average size of allergy-producing pollen is 25 microns, but pollen size can vary significantly.
Pollen grains aren't all the same size; their dimensions depend on the plant species they originate from. While 25 microns is a common average for pollen that triggers allergies, pollen can range from as small as 2.5 microns to as large as 200 microns. To give you a sense of scale, one micron equals 0.000039 inches.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Small Pollen (2.5 - 10 microns): These smaller pollen particles can travel longer distances and penetrate deeper into the respiratory system.
- Medium Pollen (10 - 50 microns): This is the most common size range for allergy-inducing pollens.
- Large Pollen (50 - 200 microns): Larger pollen grains tend to be heavier and don't travel as far.
| Pollen Size Category | Size Range (microns) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 2.5 - 10 | Travels long distances; penetrates deeply into the respiratory system. |
| Medium | 10 - 50 | Common size for allergy-inducing pollens. |
| Large | 50 - 200 | Heavier; doesn't travel as far. |
Therefore, while 25 microns is a good average to keep in mind, the actual size of a pollen grain you encounter can vary considerably depending on the plant source.
