The complete guide to pollen allergies

A pollen allergy, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system reacts to pollen particles released by plants. When an individual with a pollen allergy inhales pollen, their immune system identifies it as a harmful substance and releases chemicals, such as histamines – triggering allergic symptoms.

Pollen is the powdery substance produced by the male reproductive organs of flowers.¹ It’s transferred between flowers by wind, water, insects, or animals, ensuring plant reproduction.

Pollen grains come in various shapes and sizes, measuring between 15–60 microns in diameter² and helping in dispersal and attachment to pollinators. Some are smooth for wind dispersal, while others have sticky surfaces for insect pollination. Pollen plays a vital role in plant reproduction, genetic diversity, and the balance of ecosystems.

The subject of pollen and spores – known as palynology – is a fascinating subject, which is why our air quality scientists here at Dyson study it. We’ve discovered plenty of surprising facts about pollen along the way.

Pollen allergies can be triggered by various types of plants. The most common pollen allergens include:

• tree pollen: trees such as oak, birch, cedar, and pine.

• grass pollen: common grasses like Bermuda, Timothy, and Kentucky bluegrass.

• weed pollen: ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed, and lamb's quarters.

Several other factors contribute to the prevalence and severity of pollen allergies. These include:

Seasonal changes: Pollen levels are higher during the spring and summer seasons when plants release a significant amount of pollen into the air.

Geographic location: Pollen levels and pollination start and end dates vary depending on region and the different local plants impacting allergies.

Airborne pollen count: Weather conditions, wind patterns, and air pollution levels can affect the concentration of airborne pollen.

Genetics: Research suggests that genetics play a role in determining an individual's susceptibility to pollen allergies.⁷ If one or both parents have allergies, there’s an increased likelihood that their children will develop allergies as well.⁷

Nasal symptoms

Pollen allergies primarily affect the respiratory system, leading to the following symptoms in adults:

• sneezing

• runny or stuffy nose

• itchy or watery eyes

• itchy throat or ears

• sinus pressure or pain.

Non-respiratory symptoms

In some cases, pollen allergies can cause symptoms outside of the respiratory system, such as:

• fatigue

• headaches

• irritability

• sleep disturbances

• impaired concentration.

Pollen allergy symptoms in children can look very similar to adults. Most people with pollen allergies develop them by age 20.⁸

As the nose is the gateway to the respiratory tract, pollen allergies are associated with symptoms in the eyes, sinuses, middle ear, the nasopharynx and lower airways.

People who have allergic rhinitis are at increased risk of developing other disorders such as asthma. Asthma and rhinitis therefore frequently coexist in the same people. Most patients with asthma (both allergic and non-allergic forms of the disease) also have rhinitis, whereas 10–40% of patients with allergic rhinitis also have asthma.⁹

1. Hay fever affects a large portion of the population

Pollen grains are among the most common allergens. Estimates suggest that approximately 26% of adults and up to 15% of children in the UK¹⁰ suffer from allergic rhinitis.

2. Pollen allergies have seasonal patterns

Different plants pollinate at different times of the year, so the months that affect hay fever sufferers depend on what sort of pollen they’re allergic to. While some people react to one type of pollen during the ‘season’, and then feel better later in the year, others may experience symptoms year-round due to exposure to different allergens. We recommend using a pollen calendar combined with real-time pollen forecasts to better understand the types of pollen you’re sensitive to.

3. Pollen grains can trigger cross-reactivity

Certain proteins in pollen grains can cause cross-reactivity, leading to allergies to related foods. For example, individuals allergic to birch pollen may also experience allergic reactions when eating apples, cherries, or carrots due to shared proteins.¹¹

While pollen allergies can be bothersome, several management strategies can help alleviate symptoms:

To minimise exposure to pollen, individuals with pollen allergies can take several precautions:

• Monitor pollen forecasts: stay updated on pollen counts and change your outdoor activities if necessary.
• Keep windows closed: use air conditioning or an air purifier with cooling and keep windows shut to prevent pollen from entering your home.
• Practice good hygiene: shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your body and prevent it from spreading indoors.
• Reduce indoor pollen: avoid keeping flowers in your home.
• Avoid drying washing outdoors: pollen can stick to sheets and towels, so dry your washing indoors when the pollen count is high or when cutting the grass.
• Avoid allergy hotspots: choose the right location for exercising outdoors with allergies and avoid walking or running in grassy spaces or near fields of blooming flowers.

Various medications and treatments can help alleviate pollen allergy symptoms, including:

• Antihistamines: over-the-counter or prescription drugs that block histamine release and relieve symptoms.
• Nasal sprays: corticosteroid sprays that reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

It’s important to consult with your GP or other health professional before taking any allergy medication.

While it’s almost impossible to avoid pollen completely during the summer, there are a few simple steps you can take to help manage pollen allergies during allergy season, including:

• Wearing the right gear: choose a wide-brimmed hat and wrap-around sunglasses to prevent pollen settling on your hair and getting in your eyes.
• Vacuuming floors and surfaces: vacuuming regularly, preferably with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, helps remove pollen allergens from your home.
• Finding the best bedding: using allergen-proof bedding not only combats pollen allergens, but dust mites and bacteria too.
• Removing pollen from pets: pollen can collect on your pets, so it’s a good idea to wipe down their paws and keep them out of bedrooms.

Understanding pollen allergies is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life. By recognising the key facts, causes, and symptoms, individuals with pollen allergies can take proactive steps to reduce exposure and help keep the common condition under control. Remember, consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidance.