Birch Pollen Allergy

Birch trees release a fine powder called pollen to reproduce. This process, called anemophilous pollination, relies on the wind to carry pollen grains from tree to tree. During the peak pollination season, these tiny grains can trigger allergic rhinitis (seasonal hay fever) in many people.

Birch trees are known for their distinctive white bark and are commonly found in forests, parks, and urban areas across the cool regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Research shows that birch pollen is the most dominant tree pollen in Northern and Central Europe and is a major cause of allergic rhinitis and, possibly, asthma symptoms. Sensitization to birch pollen and its major allergen Bet v 1 affects an estimated 8 to 16 percent of the general population in Europe.

It is similar to other types of pollen, like grass pollen and ragweed pollen, which can also make people sneeze and feel itchy.

Symptoms of a Birch Pollen Allergy

If you have a birch pollen allergy, you might experience these symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy throat or ears
• Coughing

These symptoms usually start in the spring when birch trees release their pollen. They can be bothersome, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.

Where is Birch Pollen Found?

Birch pollen is found in areas with birch trees, which grow in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They thrive in forests, parks, and even in some yards, preferring well-drained, slightly acidic soils.

Birch trees are common in cooler climates. If you live in a place with lots of birch trees, you are more likely to come into contact with their pollen. During the spring, the air can be filled with pollen, which may travel long distances.

In Europe, cities like Berlin, Stockholm, Oslo, and Warsaw often experience high levels of birch pollen during the season. People in these cities may notice stronger symptoms due to the higher concentration of pollen.

Recent research has also shown that birch pollen collected near high-traffic roads can be more allergenic. Pollen from highway-adjacent trees had 2.6 times higher levels of the major birch allergen Bet v 1 compared to pollen from residential areas. This means that where you live within a city can affect how severe your allergy symptoms might be.

When Is Birch Pollen Season?

Birch pollen season usually starts in early spring and can last until late spring. Depending on the geographical location, the season can begin as early as January in some areas and continue through April. In the UK, for example, birch pollen season typically runs from late February to mid-May. In Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe, the season generally runs from March to May.

According to the European Aeroallergen Network (EAN), birch pollen seasons can vary significantly from year to year. The season timing depends on weather conditions, with warm springs causing earlier and more intense seasons.

Pollen counts are typically higher on warm, dry, and windy days, and lower on rainy days. Checking local pollen forecasts can help you know when birch pollen levels are high, allowing you to prepare and minimize exposure.

Treating a Birch Pollen Allergy

There are several ways to treat a birch pollen allergy:

• Avoiding Pollen: Try to stay indoors on days with high pollen counts, particularly in the early morning when pollen release is often at its peak. Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home.
• Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays can help with symptoms. Eye drops can also reduce itchiness and redness.
• Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nose with saline solution can help clear out pollen and soothe nasal passages.
• Allergy Immunotherapy: If symptoms are severe, a doctor may suggest specific immunotherapy. Sublingual immunotherapy tablets (under-the-tongue) are available for moderate to severe birch tree pollen allergy. The tablet works by gradually increasing the body's tolerance to tree pollen, with treatment typically lasting at least three years. For best results, treatment should begin at least 16 weeks before the start of the pollen season.

Understanding birch pollen and how it affects you can make dealing with allergies easier. Keeping track of when birch pollen is high and using treatments can help you feel better during allergy season.

Cross-Reactivity and Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

If you are allergic to birch pollen, you may also experience itchiness or swelling in your mouth, lips, or throat after eating certain raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts. This is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) or Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS).

It happens because your immune system mistakes proteins in some foods for birch pollen proteins.

Common trigger foods for people with birch pollen allergy include:

• Fruits: Apples, apricots, cherries, kiwis, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, prunes, and strawberries
• Vegetables: Carrots and celery
• Nuts: Almonds and hazelnuts

If you experience mouth itching with nuts, you should see an allergist because mild mouth symptoms may signal a more serious allergic reaction to nuts. Cooking or peeling these foods can often reduce or prevent the reaction.

Check Pollen Levels for Birch Pollen

See the current birch pollen levels across Europe on our Pollen Map (select "birch" on the map options).

You can also sign up for pollen alerts to be notified of high birch pollen days in your city.