Allergens 101
Alder Tree
Alnus incana
Alder trees, also known as grey alder due to the color of their bark, belong to the same family as birch, hazel, oak, and hornbeam trees. They are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in autumn, and are found near rivers and lakes sides, wet meadows, and marshlands.
Common symptoms
Hay fever
A runny nose, stuffiness, and sneezing are very common
Eye allergies
Itchy, watery, or red eyes are very common
Asthma
Coughing, wheezing, chest congestion, chest tightness and shortness of breath
Seasons and Regions
Northwest
Midwest
Northeast
Southwest
South Central
Southeast
Alaska
Hawaii
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Where is Alder tree found?
Alder is native to central Europe and has since spread to Russia, Siberia, Asia, Canada, the United States, and other parts of the world. Within America, alder trees are found in the Northwest, Midwest, and Northeast, with the greatest number located in West Virginia and Maryland.
It’s estimated that 20%-70% of people allergic to alder also have oral allergy syndrome, a type of food allergy that develops after a pollen allergy.
Recommended solutions
Avoid the allergen as best as you can and reduce symptoms through over-the-counter medications. If you would like to prevent your allergies from progressing or are looking for long-term relief, talk to your doctor about allergy immunotherapy or find out if you are eligible for NectarRx Allergy Treatment.
Check pollen counts daily
Wash bedding often with hot water
Opt for air conditioning during pollen season
Use asthma and allergy air filters
Use Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec as needed
Treat with allergen immunotherapy