Have you been sneezing, having a runny nose, and getting red eyes in spring? This unpleasant tendency could indicate an allergy to pollen, a small, powdery substance produced by trees, plants, and flowers during their reproductive cycle. It’s actually everywhere around us in spring because it’s carried by the wind, insects, or even animals. Let’s take a closer look at what pollen is, how it looks, and why so many people are allergic to it.
Pollen is so small, you can’t see it in the air around because it’s compounded of really tiny grains that function as the male fertilizing agents of trees, grasses, weeds, and flowering plants. For comparison, the average pollen size is four times smaller than human hair. The tiniest pollen grain is even 10 times smaller! It’s a real nightmare for allergy sufferers because inhaling pollen triggers the response of the immune system, which leads to annoying symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes.
Pollen is produced by a variety of plants, including trees, grasses, and weeds. These plants release pollen into the air, especially during peak growing seasons. The most common sources of allergenic pollen include:
Though pollen is often invisible to the naked eye, microscopic images reveal unique structures. Below are some of the most common types of pollen:
Oak Tree Pollen
Oak pollen is typically yellow-green and fine, easily dispersed by the wind. It often covers surfaces like car windows and sidewalk puddles in a thin yellow dust during peak seasons.
Cedar Tree Pollen
Cedar pollen grains are round and spiky, appearing in shades of yellow to orange. They are a major cause of winter allergies.
Pine Tree Pollen
Pine pollen is larger and heavier compared to other tree pollens. It is yellow and sticky, often forming visible coatings on outdoor surfaces.
Grass Pollen
Grass pollen is among the most allergenic. It is typically small, round, and light, allowing it to be easily carried by the wind.
Ragweed Pollen
Ragweed pollen is a primary cause of fall allergies. It appears as tiny, spiky grains that can travel hundreds of miles in the air.
Managing pollen allergies requires a combination of prevention and treatment strategies. One of the most effective long-term treatments is allergy immunotherapy, which helps the immune system build tolerance to allergens. Learn more about immunotherapy here.
Curex provides personalized allergy treatment, using sublingual immunotherapy, to help you build resistance to pollen allergens. With expert guidance and convenient at-home solutions, Curex offers an effective way to manage and alleviate seasonal allergies.
If you suffer from pollen allergies, Curex can help you find long-term relief. Visit Curex to explore treatment options today!
