What Are the Different Types of Pollen Allergies? [Guide]

Pollen allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to pollen released by plants during their reproductive cycle.

These microscopic pollen grains are carried by the wind and can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a blocked or runny nose.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of pollen allergies, what causes them, when they occur, and how they are diagnosed.

At a Glance

• There are three main types of pollen allergies: tree pollen, grass pollen, and weed pollen, each appearing during different seasons of the year.
• Common pollen allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, cough, headaches, and fatigue.
• Tree pollen allergies usually occur from February to June, grass pollen from May to July, and weed pollen from June to September.
• Grass pollen is the most common trigger of hay fever in the UK, responsible for the majority of pollen allergy cases.
• Pollen allergies can be diagnosed through allergy testing, including skin prick tests, blood tests, and medical history assessment by a healthcare professional.

Different Types of Pollen Allergies

There are three main types of pollen allergies:

• Tree pollen allergy
• Grass pollen allergy
• Weed pollen allergy

These pollen allergies can cause symptoms such as sneezing, tiredness, headaches, itchy or watery eyes, cough, shortness of breath, and more, especially when pollen levels are high.

However, if you experience similar symptoms throughout the year than during specific seasons, this may indicate a different condition, such as perennial rhinitis. Learn more about perennial rhinitis in our guide.

Tree Pollen Allergy

Tree pollen allergies are usually the first seasonal allergies of the year, appearing in late winter and early spring. When trees release pollen in the air, it can easily travel long distances and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Most Common Symptoms of Tree Pollen Allergy

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose (learn how to unblock your blocked nose)
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Cough (see effective cough remedies)
• Headache
• Fatigue

When Is Tree Pollen Season?

Tree pollen season usually runs from February to June. April is considered the worst month for tree pollen allergies.

Common Trees That Produce Allergenic Pollen

• Alder
• Birch
• Hazel
• Yew
• Elm
• Poplar
• Willow
• Pine
• Lime
• Oak
• Ash
• Plane

Read also: Common Tree Pollen Allergy Symptoms & How to Treat Them.

Grass Pollen Allergy

Grass pollen allergy is the most common pollen allergy in the UK, responsible for the majority (95%) of hay fever cases.

Most Common Symptoms of Grass Pollen Allergy

• Severe itchy eyes
• Scratchy throat
• Nasal congestion
• Cough

When Is Grass Pollen Season?

Grass pollen season in the UK usually occurs between May and July. The peak typically happens in June, when grass pollen levels are highest.

Common Grass Types That Trigger Pollen Allergies

• Timothy grass
• Ryegrass
• Meadow grass
• Bermuda grass
• Orchard grass
• Sweet vernal grass

These grasses are widespread in fields, parks, gardens, and roadside verges, making exposure difficult to avoid during peak pollen season.

Weed Pollen Allergy

Weed pollen allergies typically appear later in the summer and early autumn, after grass pollen season ends. They are less common than tree and grass pollen allergies.

Most Common Symptoms of Weed Pollen Allergies

• Severe nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Runny nose
• Rash

When Is Weed Pollen Season?

In the UK, weed pollen season generally occurs between June and September. The peak usually occurs during the summer months.

Common Weed Types That Produce Allergenic Pollen

• Mugwort
• Nettle
• Plantain weed
• Ragweed
• Dock weed
• Oilseed rape

How Is Pollen Allergy Diagnosed?

If you experience persistent allergy symptoms during pollen season, a healthcare professional may recommend tests to confirm the cause.

Common diagnostic tests include:

• Skin prick test: Small amounts of allergen extracts are placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back. If a raised bump develops, this indicates an allergic reaction.
• Blood test (specific IgE test): Your doctor will take a blood sample, which will be analysed to measure the level of antibodies produced in response to the allergens. This type of test is performed only if you have a skin condition or are taking medicines that prevent skin testing.
• Intradermal skin test: A small amount of the allergen is injected under the skin to check for a possible allergic reaction. This test is done when the skin prick test is negative, but the symptoms are severe.

Medical history and symptom assessment: Doctors often review your symptoms, seasonal patterns, and exposure history to identify possible triggers.

Pollen Allergy Types — Summary

Understanding the different types of pollen allergies can help you recognise your triggers and prepare for seasonal allergy symptoms. Knowing when tree, grass, or weed pollen is most active makes it easier to avoid exposure and start treatment.

If you’re looking for effective relief, browse Weldricks’ anti-histamine medications to manage your symptoms!