Grass allergy - symptoms, treatment and prevention

Overview

A grass allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to pollen from grasses, triggering symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. In Australia, grass-pollen allergies are very common, particularly during spring and early summer when grasses release high levels of pollen. Understanding grass-allergy symptoms and management options can help you reduce flare-ups and improve daily comfort.

Causes of grass allergy

Grass allergy develops when your immune system mistakenly identifies grass pollen as harmful. When pollen is inhaled or comes into contact with the eyes or skin, it triggers an allergic inflammatory response.

Some of the most common grass types in Australia known to trigger allergies include:

• Ryegrass
• Bermuda grass
• Bahia grass
• Timothy grass

These grasses are primarily wind-pollinated, meaning their pollen spreads easily, especially in warm, dry, and breezy conditions¹. As a result, exposure can occur even when you are not directly near grass.

Symptoms

Grass allergy symptoms can vary in severity but commonly include:

• Sneezing or a runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Nasal congestion (blocked nose)
• Coughing or a sore throat
• Itchy skin or rashes
• Fatigue or poor sleep during allergy season

Tip: These symptoms often overlap with hay fever, as grass pollen is one of the leading causes of hay fever in Australia².

How is grass allergy diagnosed?

To confirm a grass allergy, your GP will usually:

• Ask about your symptoms, including triggers, timing, and whether they are seasonal
• Examine your nose, throat, and eyes
• Recommend allergy testing, such as a skin prick test or blood test, to identify specific grass pollens
• Use test results to tailor an effective treatment and prevention plan

Treatment options

When grass pollen levels are high, a structured treatment approach can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Over-the-counter options

• Antihistamines (tablets, nasal sprays, or eye drops) to reduce sneezing, itching, and watery eyes
• Decongestants for short-term relief of nasal blockage

Prescription treatments

• Corticosteroid nasal sprays to reduce nasal inflammation
• Allergy immunotherapy (desensitisation), which involves gradual exposure to allergens under specialist supervision and may be recommended for ongoing or severe symptoms

Natural and home management

• Using saline nasal rinses to flush out pollen and mucus
• Keeping windows closed during high-pollen days
• Showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors

Prevention tips

Taking proactive steps to reduce pollen exposure can significantly lower the severity of grass allergy symptoms, especially during peak pollen seasons.

Here are a few practical steps you can follow:

• Check local pollen forecasts (Bureau of Meteorology³ or pollen count apps).
• Avoid mowing lawns yourself or wear a mask while doing so.
• Keep windows closed in homes and cars.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters.
• Wash bedding and pets regularly.
• Avoid drying clothes outdoors during high pollen days.

When to see a GP

You should consider seeing a GP if grass allergy symptoms are ongoing or interfering with your daily activities.

See a GP if:

• Symptoms are persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily life
• Over-the-counter medications are not working
• You have signs of asthma triggered by pollen (wheezing, breathlessness)

How Hola Health can help

At Hola Health, getting help for grass allergy symptoms is quick, easy, and reliable through secure telehealth services.

• Book an online consultation with an Australian GP to review your allergy symptoms and triggers.
• Receive prescriptions for antihistamines or nasal sprays delivered via eScript.
• Get allergy management plans and lifestyle advice through telehealth.

Hola Health is quick, convenient, and available across Australia. Book a telehealth consultation today.

Conclusion

Grass allergies can be successfully managed with appropriate treatment and preventative measures. By identifying symptoms early, seeking timely care, and limiting pollen exposure, individuals can reduce discomfort and enjoy a better quality of life during allergy season.

FAQs

What time of year is grass pollen the worst in Australia?

In many southern parts of Australia, grass pollen season peaks between October and December.

Can a grass allergy cause asthma symptoms?

Yes. Grass pollen can provoke asthma symptoms, such as wheezing or a tight chest, especially in people who have both hay fever and asthma.

Is hay fever the same as a grass allergy?

Not exactly. Hay fever is an umbrella term for allergies caused by grass, tree, and weed pollens. Grass pollen is just one common trigger.

Can children have grass allergies, too?

Yes, children can be allergic to grass pollen just like adults, and early care can help reduce discomfort and improve quality of life.

What’s the best long-term treatment for grass allergy?

In addition to daily avoidance and symptom relief, specialist-supervised allergy immunotherapy provides one of the best long-term options for people with frequent or severe grass pollen allergies.