Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to environmental triggers that cause cold-like symptoms.
Causes Of Hay Fever
Allergic reactions are triggered by exposure to certain substances known as allergens. Allergens can include:
- Exposure to pollen
- Dust mites
- Animal dander
- Mold or Fungal spores
Allergic reactions can also be caused by changes in the weather. Hay fever is a common condition that affects one in five people.
Symptoms Of Hay Fever
Symptoms of hay fever usually manifest after exposure to an allergen. Some of the symptoms may include:
- Runny or itchy nose
- Watery eyes
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Sinus congestion
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Sore throat
- Headache
While the severity of these symptoms may vary they can also interfere with your daily life.
Treatment Of Hay Fever
A physical exam will be completed by your doctor to rule out any other reason for your symptoms. Allergy testing will be done to determine the cause of your symptoms. Testing will identify the specific allergens that need to be targeted in order to begin treatment.
Some of the prescriptive and over-the-counter medications that can provide relief for the symptoms of hay fever may be:
- Oral Antihistamines
- Nasal Antihistamines
- Nasal Corticosteroids
- Oral Decongestants
- Sinus rinses
Allergy immunotherapy via the oral or injection route can also reduce the short and long-term severity by treating the cause, not just the symptoms.