Pollen allergy (hay fever)
Assessment and treatment of grass and pollen allergies (hay fever) in children and adults – by experienced dermatologists at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Pollen allergy (hay fever)
Chronische Abszesse und schmerzhafte Knoten durch erfahrenen Hautarzt abklären und behandeln in der Derma Medical Clinic in Zürich - Sihlcity
Allergic reactions to grass and pollen: identification, treatment, and prevention of secondary symptoms – with allergy testing, antiallergic therapy, and hyposensitization
Examinations
Allergy testing
Optional: Blood test
Assessment
Procedure
Initial consultation incl. Allergy testing
Duration
between 20 and 30 minutes
Pollen & grass allergy at a glance
What is a pollen allergy?
With a pollen allergy – commonly known as hay fever – the immune system overreacts to pollen from trees, grasses, or herbs. Even a few pollen grains in the air are enough to trigger symptoms:
- sticky, watery eyes in the morning
- sudden sneezing fits
- a constantly runny or completely blocked nose
- itchy throat or palate
Many sufferers sleep poorly, feel tired during the day, irritable, or unable to concentrate.
In some cases, breathing problems occur, such as a dry, irritating cough during outdoor sports or a noticeable tightness in the chest. If the allergy remains untreated, it can develop into allergic asthma.
An assessment is recommended if you…
- suffer from sneezing fits, itchy eyes, or a stuffy nose every spring
- feel exhausted, irritable, or permanently tired during pollen season
- notice that your symptoms are worsening over the years or lasting longer
- feel that over-the-counter medications no longer have any effect
- cannot clearly see the difference between hay fever, a cold, or other irritations
- could be developing allergic asthma, for example due to shortness of breath or an irritating cough during the pollen season
- are looking for a long-term solution instead of just suppressing symptoms
What is a pollen allergy?
With a pollen allergy – commonly known as hay fever – the immune system overreacts to pollen from trees, grasses, or herbs. Even a few pollen grains in the air are enough to trigger symptoms:
- sticky, watery eyes in the morning
- sudden sneezing fits
- a constantly runny or completely blocked nose
- itchy throat or palate
Many sufferers sleep poorly, feel tired during the day, irritable, or unable to concentrate.
In some cases, breathing problems occur, such as a dry, irritating cough during outdoor sports or a noticeable tightness in the chest. If the allergy remains untreated, it can develop into allergic asthma.
Who should consider assessment and treatment for pollen allergy and hay fever?
An assessment is recommended if you…
- suffer from sneezing fits, itchy eyes, or a stuffy nose every spring
- feel exhausted, irritable, or permanently tired during pollen season
- notice that your symptoms are worsening over the years or lasting longer
- feel that over-the-counter medications no longer have any effect
- cannot clearly see the difference between hay fever, a cold, or other irritations
- could be developing allergic asthma, for example due to shortness of breath or an irritating cough during the pollen season
- are looking for a long-term solution instead of just suppressing symptoms
Treatment
First, we discuss your symptoms, the timeline, and possible triggers.
We then perform a prick test: small amounts of various allergens are applied to the skin of the forearm and lightly scratched. After about 20 minutes, we can see if there is a reaction.
If necessary, we supplement the test with a blood test to confirm or further investigate the results.
What happens during hay fever treatment?
If a pollen allergy is confirmed, we discuss the next steps:
Various options are available, ranging from modern antiallergic medications (tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops) to desensitization – a long-term immunotherapy.
What is the process for hay fever treatment?
Initial Consultation
We take the time to precisely record your symptoms – or those of your child. Previous reactions and known allergies are also included in the assessment.
Allergy Test
We then perform an allergy test on the skin. Various pollen extracts are applied to the skin of the forearm and lightly scratched.
Treatment
Based on the results, you will receive a tailored treatment, such as antiallergic tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops, or desensitization.
Support Throughout the Season
Pollen allergies often last for several weeks. Therefore, we continue to support you during the pollen season if needed.
At the Derma Medical Clinic, allergy treatment is provided by Dr. Markus Dendorfer, a specialist in dermatology and a specialized allergist.
He has many years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases, from hay fever to complex allergic reactions.
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology & Venereology FMH
What you can expect from us
Rapid Assessment
Prick tests, laboratory diagnostics, and evaluation are performed directly by us, without long waiting times or additional travel.
Therapy Options
Whether you want to get through the acute pollen season comfortably or get your allergy under control in the long term – both are possible with us. Together, we will develop a therapy that works in your everyday life.
Long-term support
Pollen allergies are usually seasonal; we can accompany you through the entire pollen season upon request and adjust the therapy if necessary.
Everything under one roof
You receive diagnosis, medical treatment, and cosmetic support in one place. This means you have fixed contact persons, short distances, and coordinated care, from the initial examination to aftercare.
Do you suspect that your sneezing, itchy eyes, or stuffy nose are caused by an allergy, but you don't have a confirmed diagnosis yet?
Schedule an appointment for an allergy assessment at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity now.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Grass and Pollen Allergies (Hay Fever)
What is a pollen allergy or grass allergy?
A pollen allergy – often called grass allergy or hay fever – is an allergic reaction to pollen from grasses, trees, or herbs. Symptoms usually occur in spring or summer and affect the eyes, nose, and airways.
What symptoms occur with a pollen allergy?
Typical symptoms of a pollen allergy include:
- Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Coughing, scratchy throat
- Fatigue and concentration problems
- In some cases: allergic asthma (e.g., shortness of breath or tightness in the chest)
How do I recognize the difference between hay fever and a cold?
Hay fever starts suddenly – usually during nice weather and high pollen counts. The nose runs, usually clear and watery, and there is no fever. The symptoms last for weeks and return annually at the same time. A cold is often accompanied by a fever, sore throat, or body aches and usually subsides after a few days.
How is a pollen allergy diagnosed?
At the Derma Medical Clinic, we perform various allergy tests, such as:
- Prick test (rapid skin test for common pollens)
- Blood test for specific IgE
- If necessary: provocation of the nose or eyes with the respective allergen to observe the reaction, naturally under medical supervision
How is hay fever treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and life situation. Possible therapies include:
- Symptom relief with modern antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops
- Allergen avoidance, e.g., using a pollen forecast and protective filters
- Hyposensitization to regulate the immune system in the long term – via tablet or injection
What is desensitization (hyposensitization)?
Hyposensitization is the only therapy that addresses the cause of the allergy. Over a period of about 3 years, the immune system is gradually accustomed to the allergy trigger – with tablets under the tongue (SLIT) or injections under the skin (SCIT). The goal: long-term freedom from symptoms or significant relief.
What is the difference between desensitization and hyposensitization?
In medical terminology, desensitization and hyposensitization mean the same thing: a specific immunotherapy in which the body is gradually accustomed to an allergen. The goal is to reduce or completely prevent the allergic reaction in the long term. The term “hyposensitization” is more commonly used professionally, while “desensitization” is more common in everyday language.
When should I see a doctor for hay fever?
If your symptoms are severe, last a long time, or impair your quality of life. Medical assessment is also recommended for symptoms affecting the eyes or bronchial tubes (e.g., coughing, shortness of breath) – especially to prevent allergic asthma.
Is treatment also possible for children?
Yes. Many therapies – e.g., antiallergic eye drops or nasal sprays – are also suitable for children. Hyposensitization can – if medically appropriate – be started as early as preschool age.
What can I do myself for hay fever?
- Use a pollen forecast and only ventilate during low-pollen times if possible
- Store clothes outside the bedroom, wash hair in the evening
- Avoid walks in nature during high pollen counts
- Use pollen screens and air filters
