Grass Pollen Allergy

Grass pollen is made up of tiny particles released by grasses to reproduce. It is one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies worldwide. The pollen is carried by the wind and can travel long distances.

Many types of grasses produce pollen. The most common allergenic ones include Bermuda grass, Timothy grass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Grass pollen allergies can cause symptoms similar to birch pollen and ragweed pollen.

Symptoms of a Grass Pollen Allergy

If you have a grass pollen allergy, you might experience:

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

These symptoms usually appear during the grass pollen season, which is late spring and summer. They can be very uncomfortable and may interfere with daily activities.

Where is Grass Pollen Found?

Grass pollen is found in areas with lots of grasses. You can find grasses in many parts of the world, including fields, lawns, and parks. They are especially common in temperate regions.

Grass pollen can be particularly high in cities with large green spaces. In Europe, cities like London, Paris, Munich, and Rome often have high grass pollen levels. People living in or visiting these cities may experience more severe symptoms during the peak season.

When Is Grass Pollen Season?

Grass pollen season varies depending on the type of grass and the location. In most of Europe, it starts in late spring (May) and can continue through July and even into early August. The peak is usually in June.

According to MedUni Vienna's Pollen Service, the grass pollen season can vary significantly from year to year. Due to the diversity of grass species, the grass pollen season lasts longer than other pollen seasons.

Grass pollen counts are usually higher on dry, windy days and lower after rain. Checking local pollen forecasts can help you plan your activities and reduce exposure.

Treating a Grass Pollen Allergy

There are several effective ways to manage a grass pollen allergy:

• Avoiding Pollen: Stay indoors on high pollen days, especially in the early morning when pollen release is highest. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning if possible.
• Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays can relieve symptoms. Eye drops can also help with itchy, watery eyes.
• Nasal Rinses: Rinsing your nose with saline solution can wash out pollen and soothe irritation.
• Allergy Immunotherapy: If symptoms are severe, a doctor may recommend specific immunotherapy. This can be given as allergy shots or as a daily tablet that dissolves under the tongue. Sublingual immunotherapy tablets are available for grass pollen allergy. These treatments can reduce your sensitivity over time.

Understanding grass pollen and how it affects you can make dealing with allergies easier. Keeping track of pollen counts and using the right treatments can help you feel better during allergy season.

Cross-Reactivity and Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

Some people with grass pollen allergy may also experience mild itching or swelling in the mouth, lips, or throat after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables. This is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS).

Common trigger foods for grass pollen allergy include:

• Melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon)
• Orange
• Tomato
• Kiwi
• Potato
• Swiss chard

In some cases, hands may itch and become red when peeling or handling raw white potatoes. Cooking these foods usually destroys the proteins that cause the reaction, so they are safe to eat when cooked. If you notice any symptoms, talk to your doctor for advice.

Check Pollen Levels for Grass Pollen

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

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