Silver birch (Betula pendula) and downy birch (Betula pubescens) are widespread in Polish woods, parks, and along roads. Their light, wind-borne pollen is one of the most important spring allergens for some people.
When does birch pollinate?
In Poland, birch usually pollinates from April to May. A warm, dry spring can bring an earlier start and more release, while cold weather delays the season. Birch often overlaps with oak and ash, as well as the end of the alder and hazel season. A high level does not mean everyone will have symptoms; sensitivity is individual.
Sneezing, watery discharge, nasal blockage, and itchy, watering eyes are typical of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. Some people sensitized to birch develop oral allergy symptoms after raw apples, hazelnuts, or certain fruit. Not every food reaction is caused by birch; recurring symptoms need an allergy assessment.
Modeled forecast
Values for Polish cities on pelud.net come from CAMS through Open-Meteo. They are modeled, not measured locally, so they remain an orientative guide. The risk-score method uses a birch-specific threshold rather than one universal threshold for all plants.
Reducing exposure
On high-pollen days, shorten long outdoor activities, wash your hair and change clothes after coming home, and keep windows closed during peak exposure. A clinician should choose medication and any immunotherapy. Sudden breathlessness or throat swelling requires urgent help.
Threshold context comes from DWD, while modeled data come from CAMS. This text is not a diagnosis.