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Orchard Grass Allergies

Orchard grass is one of the grass varieties known to cause a grass pollen allergy. Sufferers develop an adverse reaction to pollen released into the air from the orchard grass. Orchard grass allergies vary by region and season; usually allergy sufferers are most affected in the spring and summer. Orchard grass allergy symptoms are typically similar to tree pollen allergies and hay fever.

  1. Orchard Grass

    • Orchard grass is a grass native to Eurasia, but has become popular in the United States. The grass is a perennial that grows between 3 and 4 feet high when left uncut. It thrives in moist soils with partial shade. The grass is commonly planted under orchard trees as a ground cover, according to the Pollen Library website.

    Pollen Season

    • Orchard grass typically produces a large amount of pollen in May and June, according to the Pollen Library. Most allergy-causing types of grass produce copious amounts of pollen in the late spring or early summer. When pollen counts are the highest, allergy symptoms are most likely to develop.

    Other Factors

    • In addition to pollen production, other factors contribute to an allergic reaction. Pollen counts are affected by humidity, rain and human activity, according to the Vaxa website. Humidity often lessens pollen counts because the pollen is unable to float as easily when the air is dry. Rain also lowers pollen counts by washing away pollen. Human activity, like mowing the grass, can stir up pollen, causing an allergic reaction for those sensitive to orchard grass pollen.

    Symptoms

    • The most common symptoms of a grass pollen allergy are similar to those associated with most pollen allergies, according to the Wrong Diagnosis website. Asthma-like symptoms including difficulty breathing, wheezing and coughing are commonly associated with an orchard grass allergy. Other orchard grass allergy symptoms include itching, sneezing and headaches.

    Prevention/Solution

    • There are several steps an orchard grass allergy sufferer may take in order to help prevent symptoms from developing. According to the EMedTV website, an allergy sufferer should not cut their own grass or should wear a mask while mowing. Keep grass cut short which reduces the development of pollen spores. People should also avoid outdoor activity between 5 and 10 a.m., when pollen counts are highest.

    Treatment

    • In addition to prevention strategies, there are ways to treat orchard grass pollen allergies, according to the Wrong Diagnosis website. Prevention strategies include the use of antihistamine medications and bronchodilators. Bronchodilators help treat the symptoms associated with asthma. Antihistamines can help relieve itchy eyes, sneezing and other allergy symptoms.

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