Spring means blossoming trees, flower beds in bloom, lush green lawns — and the return of pollen season. Pollen is a common trigger of symptom episodes in systemic mastocytosis (SM). Proactively avoiding exposure to pollen requires planning ahead, staying inside on high pollen days and carrying a medical kit in case of symptom flare-ups.
Why does pollen trigger systemic mastocytosis symptoms?
When proteins in pollen make contact with the body’s mucous membranes, they can trigger mast cells to release histamine. This sets off an allergic reaction. Those with SM can experience symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, skin irritations, hives, flushing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, sneezing, sinus congestion and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Read more about SM signs and symptoms
Where is pollen found?
Pollen is a powdery substance released by trees, grass, weeds and some flowers. It can be carried on the wind or spread by insects. People living with SM are advised to be aware of certain trees, grasses and weeds that are especially high in pollen and to avoid coming into contact with them as much as possible. These include:
Trees: Common trees include oak, birch, maple, cedar, elm, pine, hickory and walnut.
Grass: Common grasses high in pollen include Bermuda, Timothy, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass and fescue.
Weeds: Common weeds with a high pollen count include ragweed, sagebrush, pigweed, Russian thistle and goldenrod. Ragweed in particular is well-known as a trigger for SM symptoms.
Flowers: Most flowers have a stickier kind of pollen that isn’t airborne. However, close contact with many flowers can trigger an allergic reaction; these include daisies, sunflowers, lilies, roses and chamomile.
Tips for avoiding exposure to pollen
Pollen can be hard to avoid at times: the tiny, airborne particles are easily inhaled without realizing. A few simple steps can make a big difference in limiting your exposure:
Monitor pollen counts: Consult an interactive allergy map (such as pollen.com) where you can track allergy levels and pollen count forecasts.
Track seasonal pollen activity: Being aware of the current source of pollen can help you avoid it. In spring, tree pollen is high, whereas in summer, grass pollen is high. In the fall, ragweed pollen is a main concern.
Stay indoors: Avoid going out when it is dry and windy. Mornings are often worse for grass pollen counts. Keep windows closed and install an air purifier that has a HEPA particle filter to remove pollen.
Protect yourself: If you can, avoid mowing the lawn or pulling weeds when pollen activity is highest. Wear a mask and sunglasses if you’re working in the garden.
Pre-treat symptoms: Take antihistamines when you are at risk of coming into contact with pollen, to reduce the impact of symptoms. Ask your healthcare team for advice on medication for symptom relief.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about SM sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.
