Tree pollent2

Alder allergy

Alder flowers in late winter and early spring, before birch. Alder pollen cross-reacts strongly with birch pollen, and people who react to both can have symptoms from late winter into early summer.

Allergen
Grey alder Alnus incana
Allergen code
t2
Season
January–April
Included in
1 test
Contents
  1. What is alder allergy?
  2. Symptoms
  3. When does alder flower?
  4. Cross-reactivity
  5. How to get tested
  6. Frequently asked questions

What is alder allergy?

Alder allergy is a pollen allergy to pollen from alder trees. Two common species in Europe are grey alder and black alder, which produce similar pollen. The allergens resemble Bet v 1 in birch pollen, so most people with alder allergy also react to birch and hazel.

Symptoms

  • Sneezing, itching and a runny or blocked nose
  • Itchy and watery eyes
  • Itching in the roof of the mouth and the throat
  • Coughing and asthma symptoms

When does alder flower?

Depending on the climate, alder flowers from around January to April, often with the highest levels in February or March. The further north you go, the later the pollen arrives. Alder flowers before birch, but the seasons can overlap.

Cross-reactivity

Because the allergens in alder, hazel and birch are similar, the immune system often reacts to all three. Similar proteins are found in several fruits and nuts. That is why alder allergy can also cause an itchy mouth from raw apple, stone fruits and hazelnuts.

How to get tested

Grey alder (allergen code t2) is included in our Pollen allergy test, which also measures birch, hazel, timothy grass and mugwort. The result shows whether you have IgE antibodies to alder pollen. You can take the test at any time of year.

Frequently asked questions

Does the test for grey alder also cover black alder?

Grey alder and black alder have very similar allergens, so IgE to grey alder usually also reflects an allergy to black alder.

Why do my symptoms get worse in April?

In April, the alder season gives way to the birch season. For people who react to both, there is no break, and symptoms can intensify when birch starts to flower.

Often cross-reacts with

This text is general information and does not replace an assessment by a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 112. If you have questions about your health, contact your doctor.

Tests for alder allergy

You take the sample yourself at home. The tests measure IgE antibodies in a capillary blood sample.

Tree pollen

In much of Europe, hazel and alder flower from late winter, and birch in April–May. Olive and cypress grow mainly around the Mediterranean, and plane is a common street tree in cities in southern and central Europe.

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