All Stuffed Up from Pollen Allergies

ITCHY EYES

Watery, itchy and red eyes are the norm for pollen allergy sufferers. But some patients experience such severe conjunctivitis that fluid builds up in their eyes, making them swell and bulge. Others live with chronic vernal or spring conjunctivitis, which causes burning and itchy eyes, as well as bumps on the eyelids that feel like tiny pin pricks.

RUNNY NOSE

Most hay fever suffers will experience rhinitis – the technical term for a runny or stuffed up nose. It may be commonplace, but Ehrlich cautions against ignoring it – especially if you have asthma. Clear noses do a better job of filtering pollens, reducing the chance the grains will make it into the lungs and cause respiratory troubles such as infections and bronchitis.

PLUGGED EARS

During an allergic reaction, mast cells in the body release histamine, which produces mucus that can build up in the ears. The result: relentless itchiness and a “clogged” or “full” feeling that just won’t let up.

CHEEK PAIN

Most of us wouldn’t associate pain in the cheeks with hay fever, but it happens. Since there are sinuses behind the upper cheeks, pressure in the sinuses can lead to cheek pain.

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