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Tall Grass Allergies

Tall grass is one of the most common sources of pollen allergies in the United States and Canada, according to Allergic Living. As grass grows long and remains uncut, the grasses produce more pollen, which causes allergy suffers more problems than if grass remains trimmed. In addition to producing allergy-causing pollen, tall grass also harbors mold that may cause additional allergy symptoms. Those who suffer from grass pollen allergy should pay attention to which grasses are planted around their homes.

  1. Symptoms

    • The majority of the people who suffer from tall grass allergies are typically suffering from hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, according to Allergic Living. Itchy eyes, itchy noses and congestion typically accompany a grass pollen allergy. Unlike those with tree or ragweed allergies, grass allergies often cause conjunctivitis characterized by itchy, watery eyes. In severe cases, people may develop hives upon contact with grass pollen.

    Allergy Season

    • According to Claritin's website, grass pollen is most prevalent from May through July. The Allergy Escape website warns that the allergy season may vary from region to region, based on the types of the grass planted. In the Northeastern United States, allergy season may last from May to October; in the Southern states allergies last from May through November; May through July is the typical Midwest grass allergy season; and finally grass pollen allergy season lasts from February to November out West. If a person's allergies are triggered by freshly cut grass throughout the year, they are most likely suffering from a mold allergy stirred up by the lawnmower according Allergic Living.

    Types of Grasses

    • Allergy Escape points out that different types of grasses are more likely to cause an allergic reaction than others. Timothy, Bermuda, red top, orchard, sweet vernal and bluegrass are the most common culprits of grass allergy. The United States and Canada are home to more than 1,000 species of grass, but only a small portion of them cause allergy-producing pollen.

    Tips and Tricks

    • Help keep allergy symptoms to a minimum by following a few tips and tricks, per Allergic Living. During allergy season, keep windows closed throughout the house. Hire someone else to cut the grass because cutting the lawn stirs up mold and pollen. Have the grass cut frequently to help prevent the pollen spores that grow in tall grass.

    Medicinal Treatment

    • In addition to following a few tips and tricks, allergy suffers may find some relief medicine. Allergy antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays may help prevent the inflammation, itching and mucus production caused in reaction to an allergy trigger like grass, according to Allergic Living. Other treatment options include allergy shots and immunotherapy. In these treatments, patients are exposed to small amounts of grass pollen or other allergic trigger over time in hopes of reducing their reaction. Contact your family doctor or allergy specialist before beginning any allergy treatment routine.

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