Up to 50 million people suffer from allergies in the U.S., according to the National Institutes of Health. The task of pruning plants involves close contact with flowers and leaves -- materials that may cause an allergic reaction in susceptible gardeners. Consider prevention as well as approved medication from your doctor as ways to conquer allergies and still enjoy your garden.
Allergy Causes
While working in the garden, individuals susceptible to allergies may develop a reaction to pollen and mold. Different species of shrubs bloom throughout the year and mold develops on plant parts in humid conditions. Wind-pollinated plants that release large amounts of pollen into the air are the major culprits behind allergies. A few examples of these plants include junipers, cypress and privet. On the other hand, plants with showy flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and hummingbirds and tend to produce larger pollen grains that don’t cloud the air or cause an allergic response.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pollen or mold allergies include sneezing, coughing and itchy and watering eyes. In some cases, asthma may develop, causing shortness of breath. Another allergic response is termed an “allergic shiner,” which refers to dark coloration under the eyes -- a response to more blood flow to the nose.
Treatments
Consult your doctor before beginning medications to treat allergy symptoms. According to the American College of Allergy, intranasal corticosteroids are effective for reducing sneezing and congestion. Antihistamines also ease symptoms of nasal congestion, and eye and skin irritation. Decongestants reduce discomfort from nasal stuffiness.
Prevention
There are a number of ways to reduce exposure to pollen and mold while gardening. For shrubs that bloom in spring, plan to prune after flowering to avoid pollen. Or, for severe allergies, consider pruning before flowering to remove developing blooms and pollen. Also, consider filling your garden with hypoallergenic shrubs -- ones that produce low amounts of airborne pollen. Your local extension office is a great source for selecting shrubs that fit your needs. University of Vermont suggests avoiding the garden during the warm afternoons of spring or mornings in fall since this is when pollen counts are high.
