Hay fever is caused when the body goes through a process called sensitization. The sensitized immune system is one that has been exposed to something the body sees as a potentially harmful substance, and then creates antibodies toward this substance. The next time you come into contact with this substance your body releases histamines, which is the culprit for the watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing: also known as allergic rhinitis.

Hay fever is also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis because it affects different people during different seasons of the year. In some cases people may be affected by substances found inside their homes, making them susceptible the entire year. 

Although there is no clear way to prevent hay fever, there are ways to decrease, or lessen its effects. Determining what your allergen triggers are is the first step. If you are susceptible to things outside, such as tree pollen, grass pollen, weeds and spores from molds and fungi, it is important to stay inside during times when the levels from these things are elevated. Tree pollen tends to be elevated in the spring, grass pollen in the summer and weeds in the fall. Mold and fungi can be elevated anytime it’s warm and moist. Staying inside and using air conditioning in the warm months will assist in alleviating symptoms from grass and weed pollen. If you must be outside, take an antihistamine. These can either be over the counter medications such as Benadryl or Claritin, or prescription such as Singulair. Also, if you have been outside, immediately upon entering your home you should shower and put on fresh clothing. This rids your body of any pollen that may have attached itself to you while you were outside. 

If you are susceptible to indoor allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, smoking and pet dander, you need to reduce these in order to alleviate your symptoms without medications. This means you need to keep your home as free from dust as possible. It is advisable to have your furnace ducts cleaned at least once per year and change your furnace filter at least monthly. Keep your home free from pests. If you are experiencing an infestation you need to have your home exterminated. Advise all smokers to smoke outside, away from the entrances to the home. Keep your pets clean. There are products available to control pet dander as well. If you are unable to live with your pet, find it a new home. If these steps are unsuccessful at alleviating your symptoms you may need to take antihistamine medications. 

Two other types of allergy medication available are intranasal corticosteroid medications and allergy shots. Both of these medications are prescribed by a physician. Inhaled medications are taken daily, usually in the evening and allergy shots are given as frequently as once per week.

Hay fever is a common problem with people today. Although there is no way to prevent this illness, there are ways to control it. Talk with your physician to determine the cause and treatment that’s best for you.