How does crested wheatgrass allergy compare in severity to other grass allergies?

The severity of allergies, including grass allergies like Crested Wheatgrass allergy, largely depends on an individual’s immune response rather than the specific type of allergen. Some people might have moderate reactions to all grasses, including Crested Wheatgrass, while others may experience severe symptoms.

Grass allergies generally share common symptoms like sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and in more severe cases, difficulty in breathing. Crested Wheatgrass allergy can thus have the same range of severity as allergies to other grass types. However, the allergenic potency varies between grass species and it is considered to be less common and less potent as an allergen compared to some other grass varieties such as Timothy grass or Rye grass, which are notorious for their allergenic potential.

In cases of severe allergies, it's important to have access to appropriate medication. Over-the-counter antihistamine pills, nasal sprays, and eye drops are commonly used for managing mild to moderate symptoms. For more severe symptoms, prescription medications may be necessary. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is another option for long-term control, which involves injecting small doses of allergens to desensitize the immune system.

It's crucial to remember that individual reactions can vary widely. What might be a mild allergen for one person can cause extreme reactions in another. Therefore, if you suspect a Crested Wheatgrass allergy or any other type of grass, it’s advisable to have an allergy test conducted by a healthcare provider to identify the specific allergens and decide the best course of treatment.