How to Kick Tree Pollen Allergies to the Curb

By AOO on May 11, 2018 under Allergy, Immunotherapy

How to Kick Tree Pollen Allergies to the Curb

Spring allergies are in full swing, which can include tree allergies. If you are suffering from allergy symptoms, making it miserable to spend any time outside, it may be time to seek out treatment. Read on to find out how to avoid allergy triggers and what kind of treatment can help you.

Tree Pollen Allergies

Tree pollen allergies are very prominent in the spring. There are two common culprits for these allergies: birch pollen and oak pollen. Birch trees release up to five million pollen grains when they bloom, which can travel up to 100 yards. So, even if you do not live near birch trees, you may still be affected by the pollen. Oaktree pollen may not be as severe of an allergenic as birch pollen, however, it can linger in the air for a long time, causing symptoms.

Common Pollen Allergy Symptoms

Common tree pollen allergy symptoms include:

  • Runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Itchy or watery eyes
  • Sinus pressure/pain
  • Cough/scratchy throat
  • Dark circles under the eyes
  • Weak sense of taste or smell

How to Treat Pollen Allergies

While avoiding tree pollen is the best way to treat allergies, it is not always realistic or possible. Allergy sufferers can try spending more time indoors on dry, windy days, or wearing a mask outside when pollen counts are especially high. Over the counter medications can also often help, including Zyrtec, Benadryl, Sudafed, Afrin, and Claritin-D.

When these methods do not help your allergies, an allergist in Denver may recommend allergy shots or immunotherapy. This process gradually releases the allergen into the body, helping it to reduce the severity of your allergy symptoms.

If you need treatment for allergies, contact our Denver or Lone Tree office today to schedule an appointment!