St. Augustine Grass Allergy: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

What is St. Augustine Grass?

St. Augustine grass is a perennial, warm-season grass native to tropical and subtropical regions. It's known for its coarse texture and broad, flat blades. This grass type is popular in lawns due to its high heat and salt tolerance.

Details About the St. Augustine Grass Genus

St. Augustine grass belongs to the Stenotaphrum genus, which is part of the Poaceae family. This genus is known for its species' fast-growing, creeping nature, and their ability to form a dense turf, making it ideal for lawns. Some species in this genus are known allergens like Bahia grass.

Species in This Genus

In addition to St. Augustine grass, the Stenotaphrum genus includes several other grass species. These include Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo grass), Stenotaphrum dimidiatum (Lawn grass), and Stenotaphrum americanum (American buffalo grass). It's important to note these species can also cause allergies similar to Timothy grass or Johnson grass.

St. Augustine Grass Genus Location

The Stenotaphrum genus is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions. St. Augustine grass, in particular, is prevalent in coastal areas due to its high salt tolerance. It's commonly found in regions like Florida and other Gulf Coast states. Locations like Augusta, GA, deal with high levels of this grass, especially in summer.

What is St. Augustine Grass Allergy?

St. Augustine grass allergy is an allergic reaction to the pollen produced by the St. Augustine grass. It's similar to other grass allergies, such as Bermuda Grass, Orchard Grass, and Sweet Vernal Grass.

Description of St. Augustine Grass Pollen

The pollen from St. Augustine grass is tiny, round and yellowish in color. It is released into the air during the grass's blooming period, typically in late spring and summer. Like other grass pollen, St. Augustine grass pollen can be carried by wind, leading to widespread exposure and potential allergic reactions.

Symptoms of Grass Allergy

Symptoms of a St. Augustine grass allergy are similar to other grass allergies, including sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and an itchy throat. These symptoms can be as mild as a slight itch or as severe as an asthma attack, depending on the person's sensitivity. If you experience these symptoms, it's essential to manage your grass allergy symptoms for relief and comfort.

How is Grass Allergy Diagnosed?

Grass allergy, including St. Augustine grass allergy, is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and allergy testing. Allergy testing is the most definitive way to diagnose a grass allergy, which can be done through skin tests or blood tests.

Testing for Grass Allergy

Skin testing for grass allergy involves applying a small amount of grass allergen, such as St. Augustine grass pollen, to the skin using a tiny needle. If the person is allergic, they will develop a raised, red bump at the test site. Alternatively, a blood test can detect specific antibodies in the blood that signify an allergic response. Similar diagnostic procedures are used for diagnosing allergies to other grasses, such as Redtop grass and Bahia grass. It's essential to consult with an allergist or immunologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What are the Treatment Options for Grass Allergy?

Several treatment options are available for managing grass allergy, including St. Augustine grass allergy. These range from over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications to sublingual immunotherapy. The treatment choice depends on the severity and frequency of symptoms, and the patient's preference.

Reducing Symptoms of Grass Allergy

OTC antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can help alleviate the symptoms of grass allergy. Antihistamines help reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itchiness, while decongestants can relieve nasal stuffiness. Nasal sprays help control inflammation and are particularly useful for people with chronic symptoms. Prescription options like corticosteroids and leukotriene modifiers are also available if OTC medications aren't effective.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy involves placing a tablet containing a small dose of the allergen under the tongue. Over time, this can help the body build tolerance to the allergen and reduce the allergic response. For grass allergies, this treatment usually starts a few months before the grass pollen season and continues throughout the season. It's important to discuss this treatment option with your allergist or immunologist.

How to Manage Grass Allergies?

Managing grass allergies, including St. Augustine grass allergy, involves a combination of avoiding exposure to allergens, taking medications, and undergoing immunotherapy. These strategies can help minimize symptoms and improve the quality of life for sufferers.

Avoiding exposure to allergens involves staying indoors during peak pollen times, generally early morning and late afternoon. Wearing sunglasses and a hat can protect your eyes from pollen when outdoors. Regularly washing your hands and face can remove pollen, and ensure your clothes and bedding are frequently cleaned to reduce allergen accumulation.

OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays can help manage symptoms of grass allergies. Prescription medicines may be necessary for severe or persistent symptoms. Sublingual immunotherapy could be considered as a long-term solution for grass allergies, helping the body build up tolerance to the allergen.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or allergist for personalized advice on managing grass allergies. They can provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.

Is St. Augustine Grass Safe?

Yes, St. Augustine grass is generally safe for most people, including children and pets. However, individuals with grass allergies, particularly to St. Augustine grass, may experience symptoms when exposed to the grass or its pollen, especially during the grass's pollination season.

Safety for Kids and Babies

While St. Augustine grass is considered safe for kids and babies, parents should still monitor their children's reactions when playing in areas with this grass. Some children may develop allergies or exhibit sensitivity to the grass, resulting in itchy skin, sneezing, or runny nose. If such symptoms are observed, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Rare Risks Associated with St. Augustine Grass

Although St. Augustine grass is generally safe, there are rare risks associated with it. Some individuals may experience contact dermatitis, a skin reaction caused by direct contact with the grass. In very rare cases, ingestion of the grass or its seeds may cause digestive discomfort. As always, promptly seek medical attention if severe reactions occur.

How to Keep Playtime Safe with St. Augustine Grass?

Keeping playtime safe with St. Augustine grass involves monitoring for any allergic reactions, ensuring skin protection, and maintaining the grass properly. These measures help reduce the risk of allergies and skin irritations during outdoor activities.

Firstly, monitor your child or anyone known to have grass allergies. If they start to exhibit symptoms like itching, sneezing, or a runny nose, it might be best to move playtime indoors or to a different area.

Secondly, ensure skin protection. Consider dressing your child in long-sleeved tops and long pants during playtime to minimize direct skin contact with the grass. Also, regular application of a safe skin barrier cream can help protect sensitive skin.

Lastly, proper lawn maintenance can help keep St. Augustine grass safe for playtime. Regular mowing can prevent the grass from flowering and releasing pollen, which can cause allergic reactions. Similarly, watering your lawn in the morning will help to keep the grass pollen levels down during play hours.

Live Allergy-Free with Wyndly

If you want long-term relief from your allergies, Wyndly can help. Our doctors will help you identify your allergy triggers and create a personalized treatment plan to get you the lifelong relief you deserve. Start by taking our quick online allergy assessment today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which grass is worst for allergies?

The grasses most likely to trigger allergic reactions are Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass, Ryegrass, Timothy grass, and Orchard grass. However, Bermuda grass and Timothy grass are often considered the worst, as they produce a high volume of pollen and are widely distributed.

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to grass?

Allergic reactions to grass typically manifest as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itchy throat. Some people may experience coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, similar to asthma. In severe cases, skin rashes or hives might also develop.

Is St. Augustine grass good for allergies?

St. Augustine grass is not ideal for people with allergies as it produces pollen, a common allergen. This type of grass tends to release its pollen from late spring to early fall and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, exacerbating their allergy symptoms.

What is the issue with St. Augustine grass?

The issue with St. Augustine grass is its high pollen count, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. It's a common allergen in warmer regions, especially during its peak pollination period.

What does a grass allergy look like?

A grass allergy typically presents as hay fever, with symptoms including sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and itchy throat. Some people may develop a rash or hives on the skin directly exposed to grass. More severe reactions can lead to shortness of breath or asthma symptoms.

What does grass pollen allergy feel like?

Grass pollen allergy often feels similar to a common cold. Symptoms include repeated sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy, red or watery eyes, and an itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears. Some people may also experience cough, fatigue, and sinus pressure.

What is the best medicine for grass allergies?

For grass allergies, antihistamines like cetirizine, fexofenadine, or loratadine can help with symptoms. Nasal corticosteroids such as fluticasone or triamcinolone can relieve nasal congestion. However, the best medicine can vary for each individual and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

What helps an allergic reaction to grass?

Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate allergic reaction symptoms. Avoiding grass during peak pollen times, usually early morning or late afternoon, can also decrease exposure. Regularly cleaning clothing and showering after outdoor activities can help remove lingering pollen. For severe allergies, consult a professional for immunotherapy options.