Tree Pollen Allergies: Types, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

Tree pollen allergies happen when someone is sensitive to certain types of pollen, leading to uncomfortable allergy symptoms.
Typical symptoms of tree pollen allergies include nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, a sore throat, and coughing.
Tree pollen allergies can be managed effectively with over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications or allergen immunotherapy.
Reducing your exposure to tree pollen and making your home allergy-friendly can help ease your symptoms.

With the arrival of spring and summer, you might find your allergy symptoms getting worse, especially compared to other times of the year.

Several factors contribute to these worsening symptoms, and tree pollen is one of the primary culprits.

During the spring and summer months, numerous trees bloom, leading to an increased production of pollen. This surge in pollen levels is a common trigger for your allergies.

In this article, we'll delve into tree pollen allergies and provide you with practical steps to reduce their impact on your daily life.

What Are Tree Pollen Allergies?

Tree pollen allergies, called hay fever or allergic rhinitis, happen when a person's immune system mistakenly recognises pollen as a threat.

Pollen is a fine powder plants produce during their reproductive process to aid in flowering. Unfortunately, some individuals are sensitive to this substance.

This sensitivity prompts the immune system to react, releasing chemicals and antibodies into the bloodstream, which leads to allergy symptoms.

Common Trees That Can Trigger Allergies

There are several tree species known for causing allergic reactions due to their high concentration of pollen, including:

Cedar trees
Oak trees
Maple trees
Birch trees
Pine trees

It's crucial to understand that the specific types and levels of tree pollen can differ based on geographical regions and seasonal changes.

People with seasonal allergies related to tree pollen may encounter variations in symptom severity depending on where they are located and the types of trees in their vicinity.

Tree Pollen Allergy Symptoms

Tree pollen allergies can cause symptoms that vary from mild to severe and often resemble a common cold. Unlike a cold, these allergic reactions can persist as long as you're exposed to pollen. Typical symptoms include:

Sneezing
Stuffy or runny nose
Dripping sensation at the back of your throat
Itchy, red, or watery eyes with swollen eyelids
Sore and itchy throat
Ear congestion
Fatigue
Irritability

For some individuals, exposure to allergens can lead to more severe reactions like asthma attacks or sinusitis. Allergy symptoms may worsen when pollen counts are high or during gardening or hiking in wooded areas.

How Are Tree Pollen Allergies Diagnosed?

Diagnosing tree pollen allergies is crucial to pinpoint the specific triggers for your sensitivity, ensuring you receive the appropriate treatment.

The typical process involves a doctor reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical examination, and proceeding with specific allergy testing.

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing for tree pollen allergies often involves a skin prick test, a commonly used method.

In a skin prick test, a small amount of tree pollens is applied to your forearm or back skin. Then, the skin is lightly pricked or scratched to introduce the pollen beneath the surface.

After waiting 15 to 20 minutes, your doctor will examine the area for signs of redness, itching, or swelling, which could indicate an allergic reaction. A reaction usually suggests your allergy to the specific tree pollen being tested.

What Are The Best Tree Pollen Allergy Treatment Options?

Medications

There are various medications available to alleviate the symptoms of tree pollen allergies, such as:

Antihistamines
Decongestants
Nasal corticosteroids
Leukotriene modifiers
Eye drops
Nasal sprays

These medications come in over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription forms, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

It's essential to consult your doctor before starting any new medications, even if they are over-the-counter, as they may have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking.

Allergy Immunotherapy

Allergen immunotherapy is a highly effective long-term treatment option. It works by gradually exposing the body to increasing allergens to build tolerance.

There are two ways to administer allergen immunotherapy:

Allergy Shots: These require regular injections of allergens over three to five years. The dosage gradually increases, and a healthcare professional helps with the shots.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): This involves placing a tablet containing the allergen under your tongue daily. It's a newer alternative to shots and is suitable for specific pollen allergies. SLIT is also an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a needle-free treatment option.

If you're considering immunotherapy for your allergies, consult your doctor. They can determine if you're a suitable candidate for this type of treatment.

How Do You Prevent Tree Pollen Allergies?

Limiting Your Exposure To Tree Pollen

Reducing your exposure to tree pollen is one of the most effective ways to ease your symptoms and prevent allergies from flaring up. While it may be challenging to avoid pollen altogether, you can minimise exposure by following these strategies:

Stay Indoors On High Pollen Days: Monitor local pollen counts and try to stay indoors when elevated. During tree pollen season, counts tend to be higher on windy days or in the early morning, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Use Air Conditioning: Whether at home or in the car, air conditioning can help filter out pollen. Also, keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your living spaces.
Wear Protective Clothing: If you must go outdoors, consider wearing sunglasses and masks to shield your eyes, nose, and mouth from accidental pollen contact.
Dry Laundry Indoors: Hanging your clothes and sheets outside can lead to pollen sticking to them. It's better to use an indoor dryer or drying rack to avoid this.

Home And Lifestyle Modifications

Alongside limiting pollen exposure, adjusting your home and lifestyle can help prevent allergy symptoms. These may include:

Maintain Clean Indoor Air: Use HEPA filters in your home's heating and cooling systems and vacuum cleaners. HEPA filters can remove over 90% of common allergens. Just remember to replace these filters regularly.
Keep Your House Clean: Regularly dust and vacuum your home to eliminate pollen and other allergens. Use a damp cloth while dusting to prevent pollen from spreading.
Shower Before Bed: Pollen can accumulate on your skin and hair daily. Showering before bedtime helps remove these allergens and prevents them from getting into your bedding.
Minimise Indoor Plants: Certain indoor plants, such as ivy, ferns, orchids, can exacerbate allergy symptoms, especially when they flower. Opt for hypoallergenic plants or reduce the number of plants in your living spaces.
Practice Pet Care: Pets that go outdoors can carry pollen into your home. Regularly bathe and groom your pets to reduce this risk.
Change Clothes After Outdoor Activities: To reduce the chance of bringing pollen indoors, consider changing and washing your clothes after spending time outside.
Control Indoor Humidity: High indoor humidity can worsen allergy symptoms. Using a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity below 50% can be helpful.

When Should You See A Doctor About Tree Pollen Allergies?

Persistent or Severe Symptoms: If your allergy symptoms are persistent or severe, disrupting your daily activities, and over-the-counter medications aren't ineffective, it's time to see a doctor.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis or an asthma attack, such as:

Difficulty breathing
Chest tightness
Wheezing
Dizziness
Hives or rash

You can contact Mobi Doctor for online consultations and assistance with your medical concerns. Our platform offers convenient access to healthcare professionals from the comfort of your own home.