Asthma and Allergy > Allergies > Conditions > Pollen Allergy

Pollen allergy

You can avoid most allergens, but pollen is tough to avoid. Each spring, summer and fall, tiny particles, known as pollen, are released from trees, weeds and grasses. When inhaled, pollen triggers an allergic reaction in some people, commonly known as hay fever. Short of staying indoors, it is difficult to avoid pollen.

Symptoms

Allergy symptoms often are minimal on rainy or windless days, because pollen does not move about as much during these conditions. Hot, dry and windy weather results in greater pollen and mold distribution. Symptoms may include: itchy, watery eyes sneezing runny, stuffy or itchy nose temporary loss of smell headache and fatigue dark circles under the eyes drainage from the nose down the back of the throat sore throat or coughing snoring

Diagnosing

Medical history, a physical exam and a skin test are used to determine whether a patient suffers from pollen allergy.

Treatment

Your allergist may prescribe an allergy nose spray, nonsedating antihistamine, decongestant or other medications to treat your allergy symptoms. Allergy shots also can be helpful.