Pollen Allergy
This page covers pollen allergy — Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. treats both children and adults with pollen allergy across our New Jersey offices.
What Pollen Allergy Is
Pollen allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to pollen released by trees, grasses, and weeds. Pollen is carried by wind and can travel long distances, which is why symptoms can appear even away from open fields or gardens. Pollen levels tend to follow seasonal patterns, with tree pollen common in spring, grass pollen common in late spring and summer, and weed pollen common in late summer and fall.
Exposure happens both outdoors and indoors. Outdoors, pollen is highest on dry, windy days and lower after rain. Indoors, pollen can be carried in on clothing, hair, and pets, and can settle on furniture and bedding. Windows left open during high-pollen periods can also let pollen into the home.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats pollen allergy in children and adults across our New Jersey offices.
Symptoms
Pollen allergy can affect children and adults. Common symptoms include:
Sneezing
Nasal congestion
Itchy or watery eyes
Throat itching
Diagnosis
Diagnosing pollen allergy starts with understanding you as an individual. We use these methods:
Patient History
We talk with you about your symptoms and when they occur during the year to help identify patterns tied to pollen seasons.
Symptom Timing
The time of year symptoms appear can point to tree, grass, or weed pollen as a possible cause.
Allergy Skin Testing
Skin testing can help identify which pollens may be contributing to your symptoms.
Blood Testing
In some cases, blood testing is used to help identify pollen sensitivities.
Treatment
Our approach to treating pollen allergy includes:
Environmental Control Measures
Reducing exposure to pollen, such as keeping windows closed during high-pollen periods and washing up after time outdoors, can help lessen symptoms.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to help manage sneezing, itching, and related symptoms.
Nasal Corticosteroids
Nasal corticosteroids can help reduce nasal congestion and inflammation.
Immunotherapy Options
Allergy shots given as injections for inhalant allergens and insect venom are an option for some patients as part of a longer-term treatment plan.
Seasonal Management
Because pollen sources follow seasonal patterns, it helps to plan ahead for the seasons when symptoms are most likely. Starting environmental control measures and any recommended medications before your typical high-pollen season can make the season more manageable.
Talk with us about which seasons tend to affect you most, so we can help you plan ahead.
What to Bring
A little preparation makes your visit go smoothly.
Insurance Card
Please bring your insurance card, along with any referral your plan requires.
Medication List
A list of the medications you currently take helps us understand your full picture.
Completed Forms
You can save time by completing your forms in advance from our Patient Forms page. Visit Patient Forms