Pollen allergies can hinder breathing.
During certain times of the year, many plants produce an abundance of pollen, which is necessary for species propagation. But the fine, granular substance can sometimes cause adverse reactions in humans.
Allergies
The human body's immune system can overreact to certain allergens, like pollen, as a defense mechanism. This can cause certain unpleasant, but rarely deadly, physical symptoms to occur, including breathing problems.
Exposure
Also called "hay fever" or "seasonal allergies," pollen reactions occur when people either inhale it or touch it. The body responds to this foreign substance by seeking to expel it, much like a cold virus.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include one or all of the following, in varying severity levels: sneezing; clear and water nasal discharge; congestion; itchy eyes, nose and throat; and watery eyes.
Pollen Types
Hay fever is most frequently caused by grass pollen, but tree pollen from species like hazel and horse chestnut, and pollen from weeds can also cause it.
History
Those with a family history of such allergies are more susceptible. Pollen allergies are relatively new, having not been documented before 1800, according to the University of Worcester's National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit.
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