Does breathing in the fresh air of a beautiful spring day trigger itchy eyes and a runny nose?
Or do you experience an itchy rash by simply sitting on a grassy hill?
If so, you may be experiencing a grass allergy.
Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verywell
There are two major classes of grass: northern and southern grasses.
Southern grasses are present in warmer climates; Bermuda grass is the major grass in this category.
Still, to be certain, anallergy testcan determine which strains you are allergic to.
An allergy test may consist of a blood or skin prick test.
Control skin prick tests are also placed using histamine (positive) and saline (negative).
Grass pollen allergy is associated with OAS to tomatoes, potatoes, melons, and oranges.
That’s why symptoms dont usually occur with cooked or processed foods liketomato sauce.
However, whileanaphylaxisfrom OAS is rare, it can occur.
It’s also wise to shower after being outside to remove any residual pollen on your skin.
These sprays can hydrate the inside of your nose, reducing congestion.
Oralantihistaminescan treat itching and hives brought on by direct grass exposure.
Prescription medication:Severe allergies may require prescription medication.
Subcutaneous immunotherapy may be more effective, but sublingual immunotherapy is probably more convenient and comfortable.
If these do not work, immunotherapy may be worth considering.
American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology.Mowing Down Your Grass Allergies.
2015 Aug;175(8):1301-9.
