Grass allergy: causes, symptoms & treatments at a glance
Grass allergies are a widespread cause of allergic reactions that can significantly affect the quality of life of those affected. Triggered by grass pollen, they are the leading cause of pollen allergies in many parts of Europe and North America (Frisk et al., 2023). Typical symptoms of a grass allergy include a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing fits. In this article, we offer a comprehensive overview of grass allergies – from symptoms to effective treatment options and practical tips for getting through pollen season with as little discomfort as possible.
Table of Contents
- What is an allergy?
- Which grasses trigger an allergy?
- What are the symptoms of a grass allergy?
- How can I find out if I have a grass allergy?
- Cross-allergies in grass allergy?
- What treatment options are available for a grass allergy?
- Summary
What is an allergy?
An allergy is a reaction of the immune system to substances in the environment that are normally harmless. These substances are called allergens. In an allergic reaction, the immune system mistakenly identifies an allergen as harmful and initiates a defense response. This reaction can lead to a wide range of symptoms (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).
What is a grass allergy?
In the case of grass allergies, the allergens are the pollen released by various grasses during their blooming season. Grass pollen is very fine and can be easily carried through the air, allowing it to enter the nasal passages, eyes, and lungs of individuals who are allergic to it.
When a person with a grass allergy inhales pollen, their immune system identifies it as an "invader" and releases chemicals to fight it off. One of these chemicals is histamine, which is responsible for many of the uncomfortable allergy symptoms. Histamine promotes inflammation and symptoms such as swelling, redness, itching, and excess mucus production, which are typical of allergic reactions (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).
Which grasses trigger an allergy?
Grasses are a large family of plants found in almost all environments worldwide and release pollen—fine, powdery grains essential for the plant’s reproduction. These pollens can trigger allergic reactions in sensitized individuals. These include, among others:
| Grass | Pollen season |
|---|---|
| Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) | May through July |
| Sweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) | April to June |
| Timothy grass (Phleum pratense) | May and July |
| Rye (Secale cereale) | May to July |
| Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) | May through late September |
Source: AAFA, 2022
It is important to note that the actual pollen season varies each year depending on current weather conditions. Read more below.
When does a grass allergy occur?
A grass allergy mainly occurs during the blooming period of grasses, which can vary depending on geographic location and climate but usually falls between late spring and summer. Pollen concentration is highest in warm, dry weather and during certain times of day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Different types of grasses bloom at different times, meaning allergy symptoms may occur at various times throughout the year (Frisk et al., 2023).
What are the symptoms of a grass allergy?
Symptoms of a grass allergy can range from mild to severe and often affect the eyes, nose, skin, and respiratory tract. The most common symptoms include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Asthmatic symptoms
- Skin rashes or eczema
- Coughing and sore throat
- Sneezing fits
- Runny or congested nose
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2024
These grass allergy symptoms are especially common during the pollen season in spring and summer, particularly when spending time outdoors or upon returning indoors after being outside.
How can I find out if I have a grass allergy?
If you suspect that you have a grass allergy, the first step is to carefully observe your symptoms and when they occur. However, these symptoms can also appear with other allergies (such as dust mite, mold, or pet allergies) or conditions (such as colds, sinus infections, or nasal polyps). Therefore, it’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis from a doctor or allergist. The following steps can help determine whether you have a grass allergy:
- Medical history: A doctor will review your personal and family medical history. They will also ask about your symptoms and when they occur.
- Skin prick test: This is a common method for diagnosing allergies. Small amounts of various allergens, including grass pollen, are applied to the skin. The skin is then lightly pricked or scratched to introduce the allergen. If you are allergic, a reaction such as redness or swelling will appear within minutes.
- Specific IgE blood test: This blood test measures the amount of IgE antibodies in your blood that are directed against specific allergens. A high IgE level for grass pollen may indicate a grass allergy.
- Intradermal test: If the skin prick test is inconclusive, an intradermal test may be performed, in which a small amount of allergen is injected under the skin.
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2024
Want to get an overview yourself?
With the Inhalant Allergy Test from Homed-IQ, you can conveniently get an overview of possible allergy triggers from the comfort of your home. This test is designed to identify a broad range of common airborne allergens that can cause allergic reactions. Homed-IQ also offers an Extensive Allergy Test, which provides an even broader analysis by detecting a wide spectrum of potential allergens beyond just those that are inhaled, giving you a more complete picture of your allergic sensitivities.
Cross-allergies in grass allergy?
Cross-allergies occur when the immune system identifies similar proteins in different substances as identical and reacts to them. For individuals with a grass allergy, this can mean that they react not only to grass pollen but also to certain foods or other plants because they contain similar proteins. Common cross-allergies among grass allergy sufferers include:
- Foods: People with grass allergies may experience allergic symptoms when consuming certain fruits, vegetables, or nuts. Common examples include tomatoes, peanuts, kiwis, melons, oranges, and wheat.
- Other plants: In addition to foods, individuals with a grass allergy may also react to pollen from other plants that contain similar proteins.
Source: Popescu, 2015
What treatment options are available for a grass allergy?
Treatment methods for grass allergies aim to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Which medications are effective against grass allergies?
- Antihistamines: These medications are often the first choice for relieving allergy symptoms. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical the body releases during an allergic reaction.
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays: These sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which provides significant relief from nasal congestion and other nasal symptoms.
- Eye drops: Eye drops that contain antihistamines or anti-inflammatory substances can help reduce eye irritation and itching, which are common in grass allergies.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2023
Are there long-term treatment options for grass allergies?
Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is a long-term treatment specifically designed to reduce the immune system's overreaction to certain allergens, such as grass pollen. By administering small amounts of the allergen regularly, the immune system gradually learns to respond less intensely, which can reduce the severity of allergic symptoms over time (Mayo Clinic, 2024).
How can I protect myself from grass pollen?
To minimize exposure to grass pollen, the following preventive measures can be taken:
- Check the pollen forecast: Stay informed about the current pollen levels in your area and plan your outdoor activities for times when pollen concentrations are low.
- Keep windows closed: On days with high pollen counts, it's advisable to keep windows and doors closed.
- Shower after being outdoors: To remove pollen that has collected on your skin and in your hair, it is helpful to shower and change clothes after spending time outside.
- Use air purifiers: Place air purifiers with HEPA filters in your living space to cleanse the indoor air of pollen and other allergens.
- Avoid drying laundry outside: During pollen season, avoid drying clothes outdoors, as pollen can stick to the fabric.
- Keep pets clean: If your pets have been outside, brush or wash them before they re-enter the home to prevent them from bringing in pollen.
Source: Gill, 2019
By combining these medical and preventive measures, grass allergies can be better managed. Individual treatment plans should always be discussed with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Summary
Grass allergies can be challenging for those affected, but by gaining a better understanding of the symptoms, pollen seasons, and available treatment options, you can learn to manage your allergy and improve your quality of life.
