Top: Health: Conditions and Diseases: Allergies: Pollen
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Pollen consists of small particles produced by male plants for the purpose of fertilizing the flowers of plants and trees of the same species. Pollen is very light and is carried easily on the wind.
Though high pollen counts can affect numerous types of allergies, from eye allergies (conjunctivitis) to skin reactions (dermatitis), the most common spring allergy is allergic rhinitis. Frequently called hay fever, seasonal allergic rhinitis affects 35 million people in the United States. In summer, grasses and weeds supply most of the pollen in the air. Ragweed and other weeds produce pollen from August to November, with peak levels in Mid September in most areas in the country. Pollen counts are usually highest for ragweed and other weeds in the morning hours (5 am to 11 am). Dry, hot and windy days produce the highest pollen counts and the greatest potential for exposure to pollen allergens.
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Sometimes called hay fever, pollen allergy affects 10% of the U.S. population and is the most common allergy in the country. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic response to pollen.
In people who are not allergic, the mucus in the nasal passages simply moves the pollen particles to the throat, where they are swallowed or coughed out. But something different happens in a person who is sensitive to pollen or other airborne allergens. In sensitive people, as soon as the pollen lands on the lining inside the nose, a chain reaction occurs where the mast cells in these tissues release histamine and other chemicals. The powerful chemicals contract certain cells that line some small blood vessels in the nose. This allows fluids to escape, which causes the nasal passages to swell, resulting in nasal congestion. Histamine also can cause sneezing, itching, irritation, and excess mucus production, which can result in allergic rhinitis.
Typical symptoms of pollen allergy include:
Sneezing, often with a runny or clogged nose
Cough and postnasal drip
Itching eyes, nose, and throat
Watering eyes
Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eyelid)
Sinus congestion
Allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by increased blood flow near the sinuses)
Allergic salute (in a child, persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark on the nose)
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Steps to reduce exposure to pollen include:
Avoid outdoor activity in the mornings when pollen levels peak.
Do not line dry clothing outdoors as this can collect pollen.
Do not open windows and doors during high pollen seasons, if possible.
Wear a facemask designed to filter pollen out of the air and keep it from reaching nasal passages, if you must work outdoors.
Avoid petting or hugging outdoor pets.
Keep car windows and vents closed and use the air conditioner if you have one.
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