Grass
pollen allergy affects millions of people every year, making them feel sick and
fatigued during pollen season. Understanding symptoms, treatment options and coping
strategies is key to containing or completely eliminating this condition.
Pollen
Allergy Symptoms
Pollen allergy typically occurs during
late spring and early summer when pollen produced by different types of grass
travels throughout the environment via wind. When pollen grains are inhaled by
sensitive individuals, they cause a wide range of symptoms including itchy or
watery eyes, inflamed eyelids (allergic conjunctivitis), itchy nose, runny or
stuffed nose, sneezing and cough to name a few. Grass pollen allergy can also trigger asthma flare ups and lead to
skin irritation or hives upon direct contact with pollen containing grass.
Sometimes, it can cause anaphylaxis when protein from grass pollen enters a
person’s bloodstream via scraped skin.
Effective
Treatment and Management
Grass allergy can be easily diagnosed
by a general practitioner who may prescribe anti histamine medications to help
ease or prevent allergy symptoms. The condition can be successfully managed by
making a few simple lifestyle changes such as closing windows on high pollen
count days, wearing a dust mask while going outdoors, rethinking your lawn by
keeping it short or delegating mowing to others. For individuals with recurrent
or persistent symptoms, a visit to an allergist is recommended for correct
diagnosis and identification of trigger agent. Allergy shots or immunotherapy
may be prescribed as a solution for suitable candidates.
In addition to a consultation with a
qualified doctor or allergist, individuals with grass pollen allergy can refer to reliable online resources for
comprehensive scientific information about this condition. Having more
information at your fingertips will boost confidence levels and help you feel
empowered while battling this condition.
