Grass Pollen Allergy: An Overview
As with tree pollen
(see Tree Pollen Allergy), grass pollen is both regional and seasonal. In addition, grass pollen levels can be affected by temperature, time of day, and rain.
Types of Grass That Cause Grass Pollen Allergy
Of the 1,200 species of grass that grow in North America, only a small percentage of these cause
allergies. The most common grasses that can cause a grass
pollen allergy are:
- Bermuda grass
- Johnson grass
- Kentucky bluegrass
- Orchard grass
- Sweet vernal grass
- Timothy grass.
Preventive Strategies for Grass Pollen Allergy
Some preventive strategies for grass pollen allergy include the following:
- If you have a grass lawn, have someone else do the mowing. If you must mow the lawn yourself, wear a mask.
- Keep grass cut short.
- Choose ground covers that don't produce much pollen, such as Irish moss, bunch, and dichondra.
- Avoid the outdoors between 5:00 and 10:00 a.m. Save outside activities for late afternoon or after a heavy rain, when pollen levels are lower.
- Keep windows in your home and car closed to lower exposure to pollen. To keep cool, use air conditioners, and avoid using window and attic fans.
- Be aware that pollen can also be transported indoors on people and pets.
- Dry your clothes in an automatic dryer rather than hanging them outside. Otherwise, pollen can collect on clothing and be carried indoors.
