Hay fever | Allergic Rhinitis | Seasonal Allergies | Pollen | Allergies

 


Hay fever is also called allergic rhinitis which usually causes cold-like symptoms. Cold-like symptoms will be similar to allergic rhinitis symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing and sinus pressure. But unfortunately, this hay fever is not caused by a virus infection.Typically, hay fever can be caused by an allergic reaction which is generally harmless things or substances but the body considers them as a harmful agent so that your immune system signals your body.


Most common allergens of this hay fever which can also trigger hay fever symptoms might be pollen and dust mites. And some tiny particles like tiny flecks of skin which can be shed by our pets like cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers of pet animals or bird dust can also be allergens.


It not only makes you feel miserable, hay fever can affect your daily activities and how you perform at work or school can also disturbed by this fever. But you don’t end up with annoying symptoms. You can learn to prevent or avoid the triggers of allergens and also you have to find the right treatment.



Symptoms


Hay fever signs and symptoms which includes:


  • Runny nose and nasal stuffiness 

  • Watery, itchy, red eyes 

  • Sneezing

  • Cough

  • Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat

  • Mucus which usually runs down the back of your throat

  • Swollen, bruised-appearing skin under the eyes 

  • Extreme tiredness ,because of poor sleep


Hay fever triggers


Usually hay fever signs can occur year- round or it may start or be worse at a certain time of year which is called seasonal allergies.


Hay fever triggers like:


  • Tree pollen, that usually common in early spring

  • Grass pollen,that usually common in late spring and summer

  • Ragweed pollen, that usually common in fall season

  • Allergens like Dust mites and cockroach droppings, that can be usually present year-round

  • Danders from pets can become bothersome for your allergies year-round but it may cause more severe and worse symptoms during winter season, especially when your houses are closed up.

  • Spores especially from indoor and outdoor fungi and molds that can be both are seasonal allergens and it can become year-round


Causes


When you are affected with hay fever disease then your immune system may identify the harmless airborne substance or thing which are being harmful for those who have allergies to that. Your immune system helps to protect itself by fighting harmful substances, so it produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies which helps to protect against this allergen. If you meet your allergen next time, antibodies in your body will signal the immune system to release chemicals called histamine into your bloodstream. This usually causes a reaction which leads to the symptoms of hay fever.


Risk factors


The following factors will increase the risk of developing hay fever:


  • Having other type of allergies or asthma problems

  • Having a health condition called atopic dermatitis or eczema, that makes your skin irritated and itchy feel oftenly

  • Having a blood relative or close family member, such as a parent or sibling, having allergies or asthma

  • If you Live or work in an environment which constantly exposes you to allergens like animal dander or dust mites

  • If you are exposed to smoke and strong odours which usually irritates the lining of the nose

  • If your mother smoked during your first year of born


Diagnosis


To diagnose hay fever, your healthcare professionals generally do a physical examination and ask your symptoms and triggers. Your physician might recommend ou one or both of below tests:


  • Skin prick test. Very small amount of allergic materials which triggers your allergies are pricked into patches of skin on your arm or upper back. Allergy specialists are usually best equipped to perform skin tests.


  • Allergy blood test. A blood sample will be sent to the lab which helps to measure your immune system’s response to a specific allergen.


Treatment


Once you identify what you are allergic to, you and your provider will develop a proper treatment plan which helps to reduce or get rid of your hay fever symptoms.



One of the best ways is to limit your exposure to substances which cause you hay fever. If your hay fever is not severe then you can buy medicines without prescription which can be enough to relieve symptoms. For severe symptoms, you will need prescription medications.


Many people with these allergic conditions will get the best relief from a combination of allergic drugs. You need to try a different type of drug option before you find what works for you.


If your child is affected with hay fever, you should talk with your provider about prompt treatment. Not all drugs are approved for use in children, you should read the instructions carefully.


Usually, treatments for hay fever include drugs,  immunotherapy and nasal saline rinses.


Complications


Some of the health problems which can be get along with hay fever such as:


  • Reduced quality of life.

  •  Poor sleep.

  • Worsening asthma. 

  • Sinusitis. 

  • Ear infection. 


Prevention


To ease the symptoms:


  • You should avoid touching your face and rubbing your eyes or nose without washing your hands when you are outside like in garden areas.

  • when pollen counts are higher, you should close windows in your home and car during the spring, summer and early fall 

  • You ensure that you must enclose pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust mite covers.

  • You should Keep your pets off of couches and beds, and must close the doors to bedrooms you don’t want them to enter to your living place.

  • You must use the filters in your vacuum cleaner and also in air conditioners which helps to reduce the amount of allergens in the air.

  • You must wash your hands frequently, especially after playing with pets.


Frequently Asked Questions


Q1. What causes hay fever?

Ans: Hay fever is caused by the nose and/or eyes coming into contact with environmental allergens.


Q2. Who is at risk for hay fever?

Ans: Having a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with allergies or asthma.

Q3. What age does hay fever start?

Ans: Seasonal pollen allergies usually begin at age 2 to 5 years.


Q4. Can I take paracetamol for hay fever?

Ans: Simple pain relief (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen) can help with headaches and sinus pain.


Q5. What is the injection for hay fever?

Ans: A Kenalog injection helps many people with their symptoms of severe hay-fever.

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