For many with mild to moderate grass allergies, over-the-counter medications can be of great help in relieving symptoms. These medications may include antihistamines and nasal sprays, which can reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
For individuals with severe grass allergies and those who do not get sufficient relief from over-the-counter medications, allergy vaccination may be a worthwhile alternative. Allergy vaccination, also known as immunotherapy, involves administering small amounts of the allergen over a controlled period to gradually increase the body's tolerance to it. This can help reduce allergy symptoms and make it easier to manage grass allergy in the long term.
Causes of grass allergy
Grass allergy is one of the most common forms of pollen allergy and is a result of the immune system developing antibodies against pollen from various types of grass. When individuals breathe in grass pollen, the immune system activates a reaction that includes the release of various substances, including histamine. This process results in a range of allergic symptoms, including itchy eyes and nose, nasal congestion, and watery discharge. The pollen season for grass usually begins in mid-May and extends until September. It is during dry and warm summer days that pollen levels from various grass types reach their peak. Although many are aware that timothy grass can trigger allergic reactions, it is important to understand that there are many different types of grass that can cause allergic discomfort. People with grass allergy can be sensitive to several different types of grass, which can prolong the period of unpleasant symptoms and distress.
Many who suffer from grass allergy may also experience symptoms when eating certain foods. This is known as cross-reactivity. It occurs because the proteins in certain fruits, vegetables, and grains are so similar to the proteins in grass pollen that the immune system has difficulty telling them apart. This often results in itching or swelling in the mouth, lips, and throat when consuming these foods.
Here are some examples of foods that can trigger allergic reactions in people with grass allergy:
- Grains: Grains such as wheat, barley, oats, and rye can sometimes cause allergic reactions in individuals with grass allergy.
- Corn: Corn is another common component in many foods and can be an allergic trigger for people with grass allergy.
- Rice: Although rice is rarely an allergic trigger, some individuals with grass allergy may be sensitive to it.
- Tomatoes and products: People with grass allergy may experience allergic reactions when consuming tomatoes or products containing them.
- Legumes: Legumes such as peanuts, peas, and soybeans can be problematic for people with grass allergy.
How do you detect grass allergy?
Determining if it is specifically grass pollen causing the issues is the first step toward the right treatment. Since the symptoms resemble a common cold, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference, but a rule of thumb is that allergies often last longer than two weeks and rarely cause a fever.
Common methods for diagnosis:
- Medical History (Anamnesis): A doctor reviews when during the year symptoms occur, in which environments they worsen, and if there is a family history of allergies.
- Skin Prick Test: A drop of allergen extract is placed on the skin (usually the forearm) and the skin is pricked lightly. If a red, itchy swelling occurs within 15 minutes, it indicates an allergic reaction.
- Blood Test (Specific IgE): Through a simple blood test, one can measure the level of antibodies against specific grass types, such as timothy or orchard grass. This is a convenient way to get answers without having to subject the skin to tests.
Treatment and Relief
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, there are different steps in treatment, ranging from simple self-care to medical intervention.
1. Everyday Self-Care
Small changes in daily life can reduce the amount of pollen you are exposed to:
- Keep windows closed: Especially during the day when pollen levels are at their highest. Instead, ventilate late at night or early in the morning.
- Wash your hair: Rinse your hair before going to bed so you don't get pollen on your pillow.
- Avoid mowing the lawn: Let someone else mow the grass, or make sure the lawn is kept short before it goes into bloom.
- Change clothes: Take off your outdoor clothes when you get home.
2. Medical Treatment
If self-care is not enough, there are several medical options:
- Antihistamines: Tablets that block the histamine the body releases. They are effective against itching and sneezing.
- Corticosteroid Nasal Spray: Helps against inflammation in the nasal mucosa and is often the most effective against nasal congestion.
- Eye Drops: Provides rapid relief for red, watery, and itchy eyes.
3. Allergy Vaccination (ASIT)
For those who have severe symptoms despite medication, allergy vaccination is available. The treatment lasts for several years (usually three years) and aims to "retrain" the immune system. Today, this is available both as injections and as sublingual tablets that are taken under the tongue every day.