Birch trees are among most of the common types of trees in the United States, as there are different types of species. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, birch trees thrive in the Northeast and Midwestern regions and can live up to 50 years. Birch trees also produce pollen during the spring months. Due to the prevalence of birch trees, pollen allergies associated with this type of tree are common, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Causes
Birch allergies are determined by your body's lack of immunity to birch tree pollen. Allergies vary between individuals. Therefore, one person with pollen allergies might be sensitive to birch trees while another may not. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, birch trees pollinate in the spring time and can start as early as January and end as late as June, depending on the region. Birch pollen can also land on certain types of produce. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology explains that this type of interaction can cause an oral allergy syndrome.
Symptoms
Birch pollen can cause allergic symptoms when you inhale the pollen particles and may cause hay fever. Symptoms include sinus headaches, postnasal drip, itchy nose and eyes, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and wheezing. External contact with pollen and consuming pollen on certain raw foods can also cause symptoms. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, these include rash, itchiness, facial swelling, tongue swelling, wheezing and throat irritation.
Prevention
Birch allergies are best prevented by avoiding birch pollen during the spring months. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences recommends that you do not go outside between 5 and 10 a.m. Also opt for air conditioning instead of opening your windows, as pollen can blow into your house and car.
Considerations
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that certain foods during the spring months can be tainted with birch tree pollen. These include apples, carrots, celery, cherries, kiwi, plums, pears, almonds, peaches, hazelnuts and parsley. You do not necessarily have to avoid these foods. However, if you have birch allergies, you are more susceptible to oral allergy syndrome from eating such foods. The Academy recommends that you clean and cook these foods when appropriate, in order to get rid of any birch pollen.
Treatment
Persistent birch allergies can be treated by an allergist. First, your physician will determine that you are allergic to birch trees by performing a skin-prick test. Once an allergy is determined, your allergist will prescribe an antihistamine to help your body block allergy symptoms. If allergies are severe, you might consider immunotherapy, a series of allergy shots.
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