How to Know If Pollen Is a Problem for You

About 10 percent of Americans suffer from pollen allergies, also called allergic rhinitis or hay fever. Grasses, trees and weeds release particles of pollen in the spring, summer and fall. People who have pollen allergies may experience congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes and an itchy throat after inhaling pollen. Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications, including decongestants and antihistamines, may relieve symptoms of a pollen allergy. However, some people mistake the symptoms of an allergic reaction for a cold. Although some pollen allergies can only be diagnosed by doctors, you may be able to identify whether you have allergies or not.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine whether you are experiencing thick nasal secretions, a sore throat or fever. These symptoms are usually associated with colds, not allergic reactions.

• 2

  Keep track of how long you experience symptoms. Allergies may last for weeks or months, while colds usually disappear in about 10 days.

• 3

  Consider whether you usually experience symptoms at a certain time of year. For example, if you always get congested in April, your symptoms are probably caused by spring pollen allergies.

• 4

  Ask your doctor for allergy tests. These tests, either blood tests or skin tests, can diagnose specific allergies.