According to the Pollen Allergy site, one in seven people have an allergy to pollen. Pollen is part of the reproductive process of flowering plants, per Pollen Allergy. Weeds, grasses and trees pass their seed through the wind to pollinate with the female parts of their respective species. It can attach to anything it comes in contact and make its way into your home. Between mid-October and the end of March, pollen counts are said to be the highest. This means the quantity of pollen in the air is higher than normal and likely to impact individuals with an allergy. Outdoor allergies, per the Mayo Clinic, usually appear during childhood or early adulthood but can change in severity over time.
Rhinitis
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), outdoor allergies are also called seasonal allergic rhinitis or nasal allergies. This is due to the fact that they mostly impact the nose and lungs. Rhinitis means inflammation of the nose, per the AAFA. The AAFA points out that the purpose of mucus in the nose is to keep irritants and particles out of the lungs by trapping them. As the irritation from the allergy begins, more mucus may be produced and create coughing. This is referred to as postnasal drip, per AAFA. Saline nasal spray can be used to assist the nose in clearing the pollens out and reducing the response to the allergens.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis refers to the infection or inflammation of the sinuses, per the AAFA. Like the nose, the sinuses produce more mucus when they are irritated. This causes more drainage and pressure that often results in a sinus headache, per the AAFA. Postnasal drip can create a sore throat and coughing.
Other Symptoms
Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing are associated with numerous outdoor allergies and pollen allergy is no exception. The AAFA identifies other symptoms of pollen allergy as itchy nose and throat, dark circles under the eyes, and swollen or itchy eyes. Severe allergies can also increase asthma attacks in individuals with asthma. Experts at the Mayo Clinic point out that pollen allergies can result in sleeplessness, fatigue and irritability.
