How Pollen Allergies Really Work — And the Myths You Should Stop Believing

Jun 20, 2025
David Zhang

Written by: Pacagen Team
Reviewed by: David Zhang, PhD
David is an immunologist, bioengineer, and a scientific advisor at Pacagen.

You step outside, and before you know it — your nose starts running, your eyes start itching, and your head feels foggy. You chalk it up to springtime, maybe blame the trees or flowers. But the truth is, pollen allergies are more complex than they seem.

Let’s break down how pollen allergies really work and uncover some of the most common myths that make managing them even harder.

So what exactly is pollen?

Pollen is a fine powder released by plants during their reproductive cycle. It’s essential for the environment — but for millions of people, it’s also a potent allergen. These tiny particles float through the air and easily enter your nose, lungs, eyes, and even cling to your hair, skin, and clothes.

Pollen allergies, commonly known as seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever, affect around 81 million Americans, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (2024).

Pollen allergies

What triggers the immune response?

Normally, pollen shouldn’t be a big deal — it’s just plant dust. But in allergic individuals, the immune system mistakes it for a threat.

Here’s what’s happening inside your body:

  1. Exposure: Pollen enters your body through inhalation or contact with your eyes or skin.
  2. Sensitization: Your immune system identifies it as dangerous and produces IgE antibodies.
  3. Allergic Response: On future exposure, those antibodies activate mast cells and basophils, which release histamines.
  4. Inflammation: Histamines cause the classic symptoms — sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, brain fog, and even skin irritation.

As Dr. Evan Zhao, PhD, puts it:

“Upon subsequent exposure to the specific allergen—whether through inhalation, ingestion, or contact with the skin or eyes—a chain reaction is triggered… These cells release different mediators, including histamines, to ‘fight’ the intruding allergens, even though there is nothing harmful to fight.”

Pollen comes in many forms — not just springtime blossoms

Pollen comes from three main types of plants: trees, grasses, and weeds. Different plants release different allergens at different times of year. The most common sources are:

  • Trees: February to April (e.g., oak, birch — Bet v 1 is a key allergen).
  • Grasses: April to early June.
  • Weeds: August through the first hard frost.

In warmer southern climates, pollen may be present nearly all year. And with rising temperatures and longer growing seasons, these allergy windows are only expanding (AAMC, 2024).

The problem isn’t just outdoors

Because pollen is airborne, it easily finds its way inside. It can cling to:

  • Hair and skin
  • Clothes and shoes
  • Pets
  • Furniture, curtains, and bedding

So even if you’re not spending much time outdoors, you can still be exposed to large amounts of pollen without realizing it.


Common myths about pollen allergies — busted

Let’s clear up a few misunderstandings that you might have.

Myth: “Pollen allergies only happen in spring”
Reality: Different plants pollinate at different times. You may be allergic to trees, grass, or weeds — or all three. Additionally, in some regions, warm climates can lead to pollen release almost all year.

Myth: “Rain reduces pollen allergies”
Reality: Rain might lower pollen levels temporarily, but in the long term, wet plants can release more pollen.

Myth: “I don’t go outside much, so I’m safe”
Reality: Pollen sneaks in. It gets stuck on clothes, hair, and even your pets, easily contaminating indoor spaces.

Myth: “Only certain regions have pollen problems”
Reality: Pollen is everywhere. Warmer climates may actually have longer pollen seasons.

What you can do about it

Managing pollen allergies is about preparation and consistent action — not panic.

Here are simple, science-backed steps to reduce exposure:

  • Start medications 2 weeks before pollen season, under your doctor’s guidance.
  • Check pollen count before going outdoors.
  • Wear sunglasses and masks (like N95s) during high pollen days to limit contact with your eyes and airways.
  • Shower and change clothes immediately after being outdoors.
  • Keep windows and doors closed during peak seasons.
  • Don’t hang laundry outside — pollen sticks to fabrics.
  • Limit close contact with outdoor pets during high pollen times.

Final thoughts

Pollen allergies are more than just a springtime nuisance — they’re a year-round reality for many. But with the right knowledge and proactive strategies, you can reduce exposure, minimize symptoms, and improve your quality of life.

Whether you choose traditional treatments or environmental changes, the key is understanding what your body is reacting to — and how to interrupt that cycle before it spirals.

The good news? Relief is possible — and science is moving us closer every day.

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