Why does pollen cause allergies?

Pollen from plants, such as trees and grasses, is one of the most common inhalant allergens in our climate zone. Their main role in nature is to pollinate plants – light pollen grains float in the air so they can be carried by the wind. For people with allergies, it is these tiny particles that become the source of symptoms.

What's in pollen that causes allergies?

Pollen contains proteins that, in some people, our immune system mistakenly recognizes as a threat. In response, the body triggers a defensive reaction, releasing histamine, among other chemicals. This is responsible for the typical symptoms of hay fever: sneezing, runny nose, watery and itchy eyes.

Why is it worse in spring and summer?

During the tree and grass pollen season – spring and summer – a huge number of pollen grains are present in the air. Even a short walk can mean contact with millions of particles that easily enter the nose, eyes, and respiratory tract. The higher the pollen concentration in the air, the more severe the symptoms in allergic individuals.

Most common allergenic pollens

Trees: birch, alder, hazel, oak, poplar

Grasses: orchard grass, timothy grass, rye, bluegrass

Weeds: mugwort, ragweed, goosefoot, plantain