What Are the Common Causes of an Allergic Reaction to Grass?

Allergies are the body's damaging immune response to a foreign substance, something millions of men, women and children experience for a variety of reasons. An allergic reaction to grass is caused by its pollen. It is one of the most common environmental allergies and is most prevalent in spring and early summer, when grass pollen levels are at their peak. Symptoms range from a runny nose to contact dermatitis and even anaphylactic-like reactions.

Grass produces pollen from May to July, which is longer than most other plants that cause allergies. Unlike many plants, grass does not rely on insects or other animals for pollination. Instead, grass pollen is carried by the wind. This allows it to very easily get into the nasal cavities and eyes of humans, where it can cause an allergic reaction.

The most common allergic reaction to grass is called hay fever. Symptoms may include itchy, watery eyes; runny nose; and sneezing. This can be particularly bad for asthmatics, in which it can trigger an attack. A less common allergic reaction to grass is contact dermatitis, a skin rash caused by direct contact with grass, such as after walking across a lawn. The least common allergic reaction to grass includes hives and breathing problems not related to asthma.

In most cases, an allergic reaction to grass can be successfully treated with over-the-counter allergy medications, such as an antihistamine. Rarer, more severe reactions may warrant emergency medical treatment. There are many medications that can treat or prevent allergic reactions. These drugs are available over-the-counter or via prescription, and may be taken daily during the spring and summer months, when grass pollen is at its strongest. Allergy shots are available to some people, and can diminish or completely eliminate an allergic reaction.

People will usually not know if grass or something else is causing their allergies. Anyone experiencing symptoms of hay fever or other allergic reactions should see a licensed allergist or other health care provider with training in an allergy-related field. A simple skin test can determine the exact allergy or allergies present. This test involves a small amount of several potential allergens that are either injected under the skin or placed on the skin, which is then scratched with a needle. If an itchy red bump forms, there is an allergy present.

There are precautions that can be taken to minimize exposure to grass pollen. Those allergic to grass should remain indoors as much as possible, with the doors and windows shut. If windows must be open, a fan should be placed in each one, facing out to prevent pollen from coming in. If the allergic person must mow the lawn, he or she should first take an antihistamine, use a mask that covers the mouth and nose, and wear goggles or some other form of eye protection. People who are prone to contact dermatitis from grass should minimize the amount of exposed skin.