Grass Allergy

For some people, it’s as simple as sitting down outdoors and getting hives or welts. For others, hay fever symptoms, cough, or facial pressure occur from grass allergy.

Grass is an environmental allergy that many individuals suffer from, either by direct contact or by breathing in its pollen.

Essentially, grass is separated into two groups, cool season grasses, which are found in northern states, and warm season grasses, which are found in southern states.

• Cool season grasses:
  • Kentucky Blue
  • Timothy
  • Rye
• Warm season grasses:
  • Bermuda
  • Bahia

While there are many different types of grass, they all have a fairly similar make up, so people who are allergic to one are likely allergic to several.

As grass begins to grow from late spring into summer, grass allergy symptoms become relevant as pollen circulates in the wind. Remembering to close windows, shower after being outdoors, and monitor the pollen counts before enjoying in outdoor activities can help to reduce symptoms.

Because avoiding grass altogether is just not realistic, working towards gaining tolerance to grass pollen can help reduce reactions and the need for antihistamines. Sublingual immunotherapy may be an effective form of treatment for those suffering from grass allergy.