Get Tested to Find Out if You’re Allergic to Pollen

Pollen allergies are among the most common allergies out there, and typically they start to become a problem in the spring and summer. If you often have allergy symptoms when pollen counts are high, you might be allergic to pollen. Still, it’s worth getting tested to find out for sure and to learn what type of pollen is causing your symptoms.

If you want to get tested for your allergies quickly, Wyndly can help you with our at-home tests. Order one now to determine your allergy triggers, or read on to learn more about pollen allergies and what you can do about them.

What Is a Pollen Allergy?

Pollen allergies, sometimes known as hay fever, typically occur in spring, summer, and fall. They’re triggered by the pollen grains that plants produce to fertilize other plants. Pollen grains will travel in the wind, making them hard to avoid during months with high pollen counts.

Trees, weeds, and grass can all cause pollen allergies, but grass is the most common trigger. Ragweed, tumbleweed, and sagebrush are some common weed allergies. Birch, oak, and cedar are common sources of tree allergies. Knowing your specific trigger will make it easier to treat your allergies properly, and it will help you avoid the outdoors on days with high pollen counts for your specific allergen.

What Are the Common Symptoms?

There are a variety of symptoms people can experience from pollen allergies. You may experience some or all of these symptoms when your allergies are acting up:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy nose
• Itchy eyes
• Red and watery eyes
• Swelling around your eyes

If you’re noticing these symptoms regularly during allergy season, you’re likely experiencing pollen allergies. However, it’s a good idea to get tested to confirm.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Allergies are diagnosed through allergy testing. Several different types of allergy tests can be used to diagnose what is causing your allergies. As far as treatment goes, you have a variety of options. Let’s take a look at some of the main options you have available.

• Antihistamines: The most common over-the-counter allergy relief is antihistamines. These work to relieve most of the common allergy symptoms by blocking histamine, which your body releases in response to the allergen.
• Decongestants: Decongestants are particularly useful for runny and stuffy noses. These should only be used for short-term relief.
• Nasal corticosteroids: Nasal corticosteroids are sprays that reduce inflammation and allergy symptoms.

While medications can be helpful and provide temporary relief, they don’t work perfectly for everyone. Many people need something that will offer them more permanent results. That’s where immunotherapy comes in.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy involves introducing small amounts of the allergen in increasing increments over time. This teaches your body that it doesn’t need to react negatively to these allergens, leading to long-term relief. There are two primary methods of immunotherapy: allergy shots and allergy drops.

Allergy shots

These are injections that introduce larger amounts of the allergen over time. These will need to be administered by a doctor.

Allergy drops

This method of sublingual immunotherapy involves putting liquid drops under the tongue to introduce small amounts of the allergen in increasing doses. Allergy drops are an effective way to help you beat your pollen allergies. Get a personalized plan today to get started with Wyndly.>

How Do Doctors Test?

If you’re interested in getting an allergy test, there are a few different ways you can get one. We’ll examine these below.

Skin Prick Test

A skin prick test involves a doctor placing drops of multiple allergens on your skin. Using a needle with the allergen on it, they’ll lightly scratch or prick your skin, typically on your back or your arm. After about 20 minutes, the spots with allergens that cause you to react will swell, itch, or turn red. This indicates that you’re allergic to that substance in the panel.

Specific IgE Blood Test

Blood tests are an alternative to skin prick tests. They’re typically good for children or those who have skin conditions. In this test, blood is drawn and sent to a lab. The lab can then see how your blood reacts to particular allergens. If your blood produces a certain number of antibodies in response to the allergen, it could indicate an allergy.

At-Home Blood Allergy Test

Another option that doesn’t require needles or a trip to the doctor is an at-home blood allergy test. These tests can be sent to you in the mail, with instructions and an easy finger-prick method to draw a drop of your blood. This sample is then sent back to a lab for testing to find what substances you’re allergic to. With Wyndly at-home allergy testing is easy and convenient. Get an at-home allergy test now to learn what your allergies are.

Who Should Take an Allergy Test?

If you suspect you have allergies, it’s a good idea to get an allergy test, especially if you’re not finding any relief from at-home treatments and over-the-counter medications. It’s best to find out the specific allergens to provide you with the right treatment for your particular needs.

How to Prevent an Allergic Reaction

If you want to prevent allergic reactions and keep your symptoms to a minimum, it’s a good idea to take preventive measures.

Here are some tips for reducing your symptoms:

• Stay indoors as much as possible when there are high pollen counts for your allergy.
• Keep your windows closed.
• Bathe often and at night to rid your body and hair of pollen.
• Wash your sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and clothes often.
• Take allergy medicine in anticipation of allergy season instead of reactively.
• Wear sunglasses or glasses (if you wear contacts) during allergy season. They can help block pollen.

By following these tips and seeking treatment, you can make allergy season much more manageable.

Get Your At-Home Test Kit Today!

Wyndly is here to provide you with better allergy care and put you on the path to fixing your allergies. How does this work?

First, you can take our 3-minute allergy assessment or order your at-home allergy test kit to reveal your allergens. No inconvenient doctor visits required!

With your results in hand, a dedicated doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to fix your allergies. Not just temporarily, but for life. With sublingual immunotherapy, also known as allergy drops, we can train your body to adapt to your allergen triggers and help you find permanent relief. Ready to live better? Start by ordering your test kit today!