Grass pollen allergy is a common cause of hay fever. Symptoms appear when grass pollen is in the air and may be worse on warm, dry or windy days. The season varies by climate and location.
Symptoms
- Sneezing and coughing
- An itchy, runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- Itching in the throat, mouth or ears
- Headache, reduced sense of smell or tiredness
Grass pollen can worsen asthma. Seek urgent medical help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or gray lips, confusion, collapse or swelling of the tongue or throat.
Diagnosis
The seasonal pattern often suggests the diagnosis. Skin prick or specific IgE blood testing may be useful when the trigger is uncertain, symptoms are severe or specialist treatment is being considered.
Reducing Exposure
Check local pollen forecasts and limit exposure when counts are high. Keep windows closed, change clothes and shower after outdoor activity, avoid mowing grass when possible and do not dry laundry outdoors during high pollen periods. Wraparound sunglasses may reduce eye exposure.
Treatment
Treatment may include antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays and allergy eye drops. Start and use medications according to professional advice and the product instructions. Specialist immunotherapy may be considered for confirmed severe grass pollen allergy that remains difficult to control.
Sources
Reviewed 28 August 2026.