Symptoms

There are varied pollen allergy symptoms, even though their etiology is firmly established. Symptom manifestation depends on the route of entry of the allergen and where the reaction takes place. It is worthwhile to mention the allergic process here. When an individual, if susceptible, come across an allergen, he/she will produce more immunoglobin E (IgE), which is found in infinitesimal level in blood. IgE cause a build-up of fluid in the tissue, and contraction of the smooth muscles. For instance, if the reaction occurs in the eyes and the nose, the result will be hay fever-it will be asthma if it occurs in chest. Pollen allergy is charecterized by symptoms such as sneezing, may be accompanied by a runny or clogged nose, Itching eyes, nose, and throat, allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes caused by restricted blood flow near the sinuses), "allergic salute" (in a child, persistent upward rubbing of the nose that causes a crease mark on the nose), watering eyes, and conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids, causing red-rimmed eyes).

Diagnosis

Pollen allergy is not different from other forms of allergy and has the nearly same symptoms of the common cold, which include running nose, sneezing and irritation of the nose. The main factor that determines whether a pollen is harmful or not is its chemical makeup. It is best to see the doctor if any respiratory illness persists for more than two weeks. Some tests that are available to diagnose allergies caused by pollens include,

• Skin Tests - This is to check for allergic reaction with pollens. Diluted extracts of each kind of pollen is applied to a scratch/puncture made on the patient's arm or back or injected under the patient's skin. If there is any positive reaction, a small, raised, reddened area with a surrounding flush (called a wheal and flare) will appear at the test site. This wheal may give significant information to the physician on the type of allergy.
  
  
• Blood Tests - Skin tests may not be carried out with patients that have certain skin conditions. To diagnose pollen allergies, diagnostic blood test such as RAST (radioallergosorbent test) is carried out. Although, this test offers some advantages over skin testing, it is expensive to perform, and takes several weeks to yield results.

Treatment of Pollen Allergy

Pollen allergy can be treated by resorting to medications, and avoidance of allergens. Medications that are found to alleviate or cure pollen allergy include nasal corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, decongestants, cromolyn sodium and nonsteroidal nasal sprays. Unprecedented growth of technology has also paved way for new therapies such as immunotherapy. Compared to placebo, specific immunotherapy has calmed asthma symptoms caused by pollen grains.

How To Prevent Pollen Allergy?

Prevention of pollen allergy is very much possible. The best approach is to avoid directl contact with pollens, preferably at early mornings, sunny and windy days when the frequency of pollen in the atmosphere is much more. Pollen allergies can also be controlled by avoiding irritants, and employing air cleaners, air filters (such as HEPA), nasal decongestants, and relevant medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and cromolyn sodium.