Airborne pollen is one of the most annoying and common allergens, and it causes 35 million people to suffer from upper respiratory allergy symptoms each year. A little over 5 million (fifteen percent) of these people suffer from spring seasonal tree pollen allergies.

Pollen allergy is one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. The seasonal variety of pollen allergies is commonly referred to as hay fever (a misnomer, as it has nothing to do at all with hay or with fever), but many doctors reserve this term for the specific allergy to ragweed which pollinates in the fall. Allergies that occur in the spring are usually a result of either grasses (85%) or tree pollen (15%) and spring allergies are sometimes referred to as rose fever (again, having nothing to do with roses or fever.)

Of the more than 50,000 species of trees worldwide, there are 600-700 native to North America; only pollen from about 65 of these has been shown to cause allergies. Most people are aware of their seasonal sensitivity, but may not know what the specific cause is (i.e. tree pollen, grass pollen, or molds). Accurate diagnosis should always include on detailed patient history and testing by an allergist.

Tree pollen counts tend to be highest on warm, dry and breezy days, especially after a recent spate of precipitation or humid weather. Remain indoors when pollen counts are at there highest, particularly the early morning, late afternoon and early evening. Because of the microscopic size of tree pollens, most inexpensive masks sold at drug stores do not prevent pollen from sneaking in around the edges. 

Tree pollens generally show little cross-reactivity amongst themselves.  Symptoms will only come about from an allergy to the pollen of a specific tree; one who is sensitive to oak may not necessarily be allergic to cedar. There are two families of trees that are an exception to this: the family that contains oaks, beeches and birches; and the family belonging to the cedars and junipers. One who is allergic to the pollen of one of these trees will likely experience symptoms from one or more members of the same family. Occasionally those with allergic reactions to tree pollens may also cross-react to certain raw fruits such as apples, plums and pears (though these foods may be less allergenic when cooked). Food cross-reactions usually result in itchiness in the mouth and throat.

Over-the-counter antihistamines are how many people find relief from tree pollen allergies. Antihistamines work well to relieve symptoms, but remember that some induce drowsiness and can interfere with driving, work and other activities. Recently approved prescription antihistamines such as Claritin can be very effective and not cause drowsiness. Topical corticosteriods are valuable in the form of nasal sprays such as Beconase, Nasacort, Rhinocort, Flonase, Veramyst, Nasonex and Omnaris.  If used consistently during the hay fever season, they are very effective relieving nasal symptoms, with no major side effects.

Topical (local) nasal decongestant sprays can be used only occasionally, but never regularly because they cause rebound congestion. In the long run, decongestant nasal sprays can exacerbate, rather than reduce, tree pollen symptoms and should only be used according to the directions, and with caution.

Immunotherapy, or a series of allergy shots, is the best therapy for long-term relief. Most patients will have a significant reduction in their allergy symptoms within 9-12 months of starting their immunotherapy. As better allergens for immunotherapy have been produced in recent years, this technique has become an even more effective treatment.

Both 1-800-POLLENS and the AAAAI (abreviation TK) site have comprehensive lists with the individual components of trees pollens.

Allergy to Flowering Plants or Moldy Weather

It is common to hear people say that they are allergic to colorful or scented flowers like roses. In fact, only florists, gardeners, and others who have prolonged, close contact with flowers are likely to become sensitized to pollen from these plants. Most people have little contact with the large, heavy, waxy pollen grains of many flowering plants because this type of pollen is not carried by wind but by insects such as butterflies and bees.

One who sneezes around flowers, may be allergic to nearby pollen, or is merely irritated by the smell of the flowers.