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Bermuda Grass Allergies

Bermuda grass is one of the more common grasses used on lawns because of its drought-resistant nature and reasonable cost, according to americanlawn.com. Bermuda grass can be planted from seeds, sod, plugs and even sprigs. Unfortunately, because of its ubiquity, Bermuda grass can cause misery for people who have grass allergies. The treatments for Bermuda grass allergies are usually like any other grass allergy.

  1. Significance

    • Bermuda grass allergies become particularly troublesome during the spring and summer months. During this time, Bermuda grass is growing and releases airborne pollen to help germinate plants and flowers. Pollen from Bermuda grass can invade a person's nasal passages or throat. Consequently, people with grass allergies typically develop a number of adverse symptoms.

    Symptoms

    • Bermuda grass allergy symptoms can be mild to severe. People often suffer from watery eyes, an irritated throat, sneezing, congestion, sore throat, a dry, hacking cough and even asthma, according to plantcare.com. Additionally, some people may develop conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the eye membrane, or have skin reactions to Bermuda grass.

    Treatments

    • Most people with Bermuda grass allergies can be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants or nasal sprays such as cromolyn sodium, according to familydoctor.com. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe steroid nasal sprays or pills to help control a patient's symptoms. Immunotherapy or allergy shots can also be a highly effective treatment for people with severe allergy symptoms to Bermuda grass.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best way to prevent allergic reactions to Bermuda grass is to wear a mask while mowing the lawn. A person with severe Bermuda grass allergies should also stay indoors during pollen season, shut the windows and run an air conditioner. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters can also be highly effective in removing Bermuda grass pollen that seeps into the house.

    Considerations

    • People with Bermuda grass allergies should also consistently maintain their lawn. Bermuda grass tends to release more pollen when it is under stress, which can include a lack of watering, improper aeration and other problems. Typically, Bermuda grass pollen can be contained by the thin grass leaves of a healthy lawn, according to americanlawns.com.

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