A pollen allergy, also known as hay fever, is a common condition that causes symptoms like stuffy nose, coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes when a person breathes in pollen. Pollen is a fine powder produced by plants, trees, and grasses to fertilize other plants. When someone with a pollen allergy inhales pollen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat and releases histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction.
Here are some common symptoms of pollen allergy:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Itchy throat and eyes
- Wheezing
Pollen can also aggravate asthma symptoms. Depending on the type of pollen, allergies can occur seasonally. For example, tree pollen is common in early spring, while grass pollen is prevalent in late spring and summer.
Treatment options for pollen allergies include:
- Medication: Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants can help relieve allergy symptoms.
- Allergy shots (Immunotherapy): These injections help desensitize the body to pollen over time.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding pollen exposure by staying indoors during peak pollen times, wearing a mask when outdoors, and using air purifiers can help manage symptoms.
