Tree pollen allergies can cause symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, and congestion. Relief can be found with over-the-counter medications and nasal sprays, but severe cases may require a doctor’s intervention. Symptoms are worse in early spring, and reactions are most common around elms, walnuts, pecans, and hickories. Treatment options include antihistamines, decongestants, and allergy shots.
Many people are sensitive to allergens found in some types of tree pollen. When the wind blows, tiny pollen spores scatter into the air in search of other trees to pollinate. If an allergic person breathes in some of these spores, they may develop a runny nose, watery eyes, and congestion that can last for several hours. Airborne allergens can be difficult to avoid, especially in an area with lots of trees, but people can usually find relief with over-the-counter medications and nasal sprays. An individual with a severe or persistent tree pollen allergy typically should speak with their doctor to learn about different treatment options.
Tree pollen allergy sufferers most frequently experience symptoms around elms, walnuts, pecans, and hickories. Some individuals are also sensitive to sycamore, olive and willow trees. Reactions tend to be worse when a person lives or works near many trees, although pollen spores can be easily blown by the wind from distant trees. Depending on the specific tree pollen allergy a person has, symptoms may only be present during certain seasons. They are generally worst in early spring, however, when most trees are producing new spores.
Pollens enter the nose and mouth and stick to the mucous membranes in the throat. An allergic person’s immune system recognizes pollens as foreign invaders, although the pollens themselves pose no threat to health. The immune system releases histamines to fight allergens, causing inflammation, irritation and mucus production in the airways. The results of a tree pollen allergy include a stuffy or runny nose, head and chest congestion, coughing, sneezing, and red, watery eyes. Some severely allergic people experience swelling of the face and neck and an itchy rash.
Most tree pollen allergy problems can be treated with oral antihistamines and decongestants. Some people find that saline nasal sprays help reduce congestion, and special over-the-counter eye drops can reduce itching and redness. Symptoms tend to disappear within hours of entering the home and taking the appropriate medications.
If a person finds that over-the-counter medications simply don’t provide relief, they can visit a doctor. The doctor can determine the specific causes of a patient’s tree pollen allergy and determine the best course of treatment. Some patients are prescribed high-strength antihistamines to combat active reactions and daily medications to help prevent the onset of allergy symptoms. A doctor may suggest regular allergy shots for people who experience frequent allergic episodes. Additionally, medical professionals can help a patient identify the triggers of their reactions and learn about the most effective methods to avoid exposure.
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