Pollen allergy

What is pollen allergy?

Pollen is the most common trigger of seasonal allergies, which are also known as "hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis."¹ Most plants produce pollen in spring and early summer, and pollen that float in the air is the main problem for allergy sufferers. Some trees that release airborne tree allergens can cause severe symptoms, while fruit trees fertilized by insects or birds such as cherry and pear trees do not usually cause hay fever.¹

There are 3 main types of pollen allergies - grass pollen, tree pollen, and weed pollen allergy.¹

What are the symptoms of pollen allergy?¹

People with pollen allergies only have symptoms when the pollen they are allergic to is in the air. Symptoms often include a stuffy, runny nose (typically a clear, thin nasal discharge), sneezing, itchy nose, eyes, ears, and mouth, and red, watery eyes often with swelling around the eyes.

When does pollen allergy start in New Zealand and how does it spread?²

The pollen season starts in the north of the North Island and gradually moves down through the South Island. Different tree species produce pollen at different times of the year, sometimes as early as July. Pine pollen is frequently the first sign of the pollen season, but it usually lasts only a few days. Grasses start in August and run through to March.

Pollen concentrations vary depending on region and weather conditions, with warm, dry, windy days favouring pollen release whereas rain cleanses the air of pollen. The peak period lasts only a few days. For those who are allergic to pollen, wind strength and direction also have an impact on how much pollen they are exposed to. Pollen forecasting for all 12 months of the year is available on the MetserviceNZ regional weather forecast pages.

How to prevent pollen allergy?^2,3

If you have allergies and live in a pollen-rich area, it is important to try and avoid exposure to the pollen you may be allergic to. Here are some tips that can help you prevent pollen allergy:

Keep the garden free of any plants which you’re allergic to
Try to stay indoors at times when the pollen count is at its highest (e.g., early evening and during windy days including thunderstorms)
Get someone else to mow the lawn
Close your bedroom windows at night to prevent pollen from entering
Wear wrap-around sunglasses to avoid pollen getting into your eyes
Have a shower and wash your hair at night to wash away pollen you may have ‘collected’ during the day

Pollen allergies can interrupt your everyday activities by causing sneezing, a stuffy nose, and watery eyes. Lifestyle changes and medications can help reduce these symptoms. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if your symptoms become more severe or if your allergy medications are causing unwanted side effects.