Pollen allergy typically causes allergic rhinitis, otherwise commonly but perhaps incorrectly known as hay fever.
Allergic rhinitis is a common disease and affects literally millions of people worldwide. In sensitized individuals, the body’s immune response to pollen exposure, causes acute, and eventually chronic inflammation of the eyes and nasal passages. Typical symptoms include:
Though sometimes overlooked as a common problem, Allergic Rhinitis is a source of significant morbidity for affected people. Eventually it leads to complications such as poor quality of sleep, asthma and frequent sinus infections. The chronic nature of the disease leads to impaired learning, increasing time off work and school and reduced productivity.
Many patients with allergic rhinitis have coexisting asthma.
A particular phenomenon associated with pollen allergy is known as thunderstorm asthma. Thunderstorms, especially in early spring can cause an acute and massive surge in pollen. Pollen particles on absorbing moisture burst and release smaller particles which have much easier access into small airways and can trigger severe and potentially fatal asthma attacks in sensitized individuals.
An Allergist will help you with the correct diagnosis and in formulating a treatment plan. A history of the timing and severity of symptoms, and knowledge about the plants and trees native to the area is important. For confirmation, skin prick tests and/or blood allergen specific IgE tests are utilized. Test interpretation needs knowledge and experience.
Pollen grains can be spread by birds, insects (bees, butterflies, flies and moths), and wind. Pasture grasses and weeds rely on wind to spread their pollen. These pollens are produced in large amounts, blow long distances and cause allergies in people, even if they live a long way from the source.
Pollen seasons can be long, and avoidance can be difficult.
Avoidance measures include limiting outdoor activities in the pollen season and on windy days. Avoid mowing grass but if unavoidable, wear a mask and take a non-drowsy antihistamine. Keep your car windows closed when driving and use recirculated air. Avoid going out during or after thunderstorms. For landscaping do your research and prefer plants less likely to cause allergic rhinitis or asthma.
Real-time information about pollen counts and forecasts can be found at https://www.pollenforecast.com.au/
Seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor about medications that will relieve your symptoms. Medications don’t cure allergies; they relieve them for a short time; use them as recommended.
