What Is Pollen Allergy?
![Pollen Allergy Side Effects]()
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Pollen is said to be one of the most common causes of allergies in the United States especially.
What Is Pollen?
Pollen is a powder produced by trees, flowers, grasses, and weeds in order to fertilize other plants of the same species. Many people have an adverse immune response when they breathe in pollen.
The Immune System Reaction To Pollen
The immune system normally defends the body against harmful invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, to ward off illnesses. In people with pollen allergies, the immune system mistakenly identifies the harmless pollen as a dangerous intruder and begins to produce chemicals to fight against the pollen. This is known as an allergic reaction, and the specific type of pollen that causes it is known as an allergen. The reaction leads to numerous irritating symptoms, such as sneezing, stuffy nose, and watery eyes.
People With Pollen Allergies
Some people have pollen allergies year-round, while others only have them during certain times of the year. For example, people who are sensitive to birch pollen will usually have increased symptoms during the spring when birch trees are in bloom. Similarly, those with ragweed allergies will be most affected during the late spring and early fall.
Pollen Allergies In The U.S.
Pollen allergies affect up to 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children in the United States. The allergy is unlikely to go away once it has developed. However, symptoms can be treated with medications and allergy shots. Making certain lifestyle changes can also help relieve the symptoms associated with pollen allergies.
A pollen allergy may also be referred to as hay fever or allergic rhinitis.