Cultivated rye releases pollen that is a well-known cause of seasonal allergies. Its pollen season can overlap with grass pollen season, exacerbating symptoms for individuals with grass pollen allergies. When rye fields are flowering, nearby populations may experience a spike in hay fever symptoms....
Testing for cultivated rye allergy is recommended if you have symptoms of hay fever during late spring and early summer, which align with rye pollination times.
The immune system in allergic individuals identifies proteins in rye pollen as threats, leading to an allergic reaction characterized by inflammation and hay fever symptoms.
To reduce symptoms, avoid going outdoors on days when the pollen count is high, especially around rye fields. Use of air purifiers and adherence to prescribed allergy medication regimens can also be beneficial.