Perennial Rye Grass Allergy Test

Native to Europe and temperate zones, ryegrass is a perennial bunchgrass that causes allergic reactions in some people. Due to the wind-pollination mechanism, ryegrass is found in abundance in the air during the flowering season. In addition, the pollination duration of ryegrass usually spans the entire summer season.

Upon contact with the grass pollen, the body activates the immune response forming antibodies considering the ryegrass pollens as invaders. The body develops antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE), in response to which histamines are secreted in the system. Histamines are chemical compounds found in the bloodstream when the defence system activates against potential allergens.

Due to the histamine release in ryegrass allergy, the body exhibits various symptoms in the presence of perennial ryegrass (g5) IgE. These effects are commonly perceived as the allergic reaction to ryegrass and include:

• Runny nose 
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy eyes and throat
• Frequent wheezing
• Prolonged sneezing
• Puffy and teary eyes
• Rashes and hives 
• Coughing 
• Mild breathing difficulty
• Mild to moderate headache with sinus pressure
• Itchy skin and mouth

For patients suffering from asthma, grass pollens may induce severe coughing, wheezing and extreme breathing difficulty.

Patients with ryegrass allergy are also susceptible to experiencing other severe symptoms when exposed to allergens like weed, tree, or other grass pollens. Due to the cross-reactivity, identifying the precise cause of the allergic reaction becomes difficult.

To provide an efficient and robust allergy management plan and treatment, a healthcare provider suggests a perennial ryegrass allergy test. The ryegrass allergy diagnosis helps the patient and the medical practitioner ascertain the exact course of treatment, including immunotherapy. In addition, it also assists in determining additional food or pollen allergies the patient might be suffering with, like:

• Allergic rhinitis or hay fever
• Pollen food allergy syndrome

The blood allergy IgE test involves blood sample collection using a surgical needle. The patient might feel slight pain in the body part where the needle was inserted. However, the pain subsides within 1-3 days.

Other than providing symptomatic treatment and allergen immunotherapy, the medical consult also recommends exposure control by limiting contact with the allergen. To ensure a reduced reaction, a patient should:

• Restrict outside time during the peak pollen count
• Wear a mask when outside
• Keep the inside air pollen-free with closed windows and air-conditioning usage
• Do frequent bedding cleaning
• Dry clothes indoors or in a dryer
• Use asthma and allergy air filters
• Bathe and wash every day to keep pollens away from bed and pillows

Apollo 24|7 offers an extensive blood allergy IgE test with more than 100 laboratories across the country. It ensures accurate test results with top-notch diagnostics technology and experienced lab technicians. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Saibal Moitra, Allergist and clinical immunologist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.

Frequently asked questions

What is ryegrass pollen allergy?

Perennial ryegrass pollen allergy is a reaction of the immune system against grass pollens in the wind. Upon interaction with the pollen, the body forms perennial ryegrass (g5) IgE antibodies which release histamines in the system to flush out the potential allergens and toxins.

Can there be any complications with grass allergy?

Usually, allergic patients can easily manage the symptoms of grass allergy with proper therapy and exposure avoidance. However, in certain cases, it can worsen to cause extreme coughing and breathing difficulty requiring medical attention. Anaphylaxis or life-threatening allergic reaction is possible only in rare circumstances.

What does the perennial ryegrass allergy test detect?

The diagnosis checks for the presence of perennial ryegrass (g5) IgE antibodies in the bloodstream of the patient. Contact with grass allergen induces the production of antibodies to shield the body from pathogens.

What are the symptoms of perennial ryegrass pollen allergy?

The most common allergic symptoms include:  Scratchy throat Runny nose Rashes and hives around the neck and face Teary eyes Congestion Mild breathing difficulty Headaches and sinus pressure Frequent sneezing Itchy skin

What are the treatments suggested by medical experts for pollen allergy?

The medical professional suggests both medication and immunotherapy for the management of pollen allergy. The pharmacological treatment includes antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and saline douches to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms. Allergen immunotherapy comprises regular administration of allergen doses over a prolonged duration as suggested by the expert.

What do histamines do to the body during allergies?

Histamine is a chemical released upon the signal received by the antibodies after interaction with a pathogen. As a part of toxin disinfection in the body, these chemicals boost blood flow in the affected area, causing inflammation. This leads to the white blood cells activating other defence responses in the body.