Allergens 101
Johnson Grass
Sorghum Halepense
This perennial grass grows quickly and causes moderate allergic reactions. Johnson grass is considered a damaging weed and is found on cropland, roadsides, wasteland, and along streams and canal banks.
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
Northeast
Northwest
Midwest
Southeast
South Central
Southwest
Alaska
Hawaii
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Where is Johnson grass found?
Johnson grass is found in most of the humid, warm temperate, and tropical parts of the world, including Australia, Turkey, South Asia, the Mediterranean, and the United States, where it was introduced as a forage crop in the 1830s.
Johnson can grow up to 7 feet long! It is also categorized as a weed in 53 countries because it damages crops, hosts pathogens and insects, and even poses a fire hazard.
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
Wear sunglasses and/or nasal filters
Opt for air conditioning
Avoid freshly cut grassy areas
Shower after exposure
Use Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec as needed
Treat with allergen immunotherapy