Hay Fever, also known as allergic rhinitis or pollenosis, is an allergic reaction to certain allergens, such as pollen, dust mites or pet hair. This condition is caused by the response of the body’s immune system to certain substances. Many people experience seasonal rhinitis, in which their allergies only occur during a specific season of the year.
Symptoms of Hay Fever
Symptoms of hay fever are normally caused as a result of inflammation that is triggered by the immune system. After individuals come in contact with certain substances, the allergen triggers the hay fever. Many of the symptoms of the ailment are the same as that of a cold. People could experience nasal congestion, sneezing or watery eyes that could make them miserable. In addition, sinus pressure, coughing or an itchy nose or throat could also be a symptom of hay fever.
The sensitized immune system manufactures antibodies to allergens, which cause histamines to be distributed into the bloodstream, causing these symptoms. Therefore, doctors normally prescribe an antihistamine or decongestants to treat these allergies. If symptoms are severe enough, a patient might take an itchy steroid for their itching discomfort. Intranasal corticosteroids are also effective in preventing hay fever.
A person with this ailment could also experience fatigue and lack of energy. They might also have trouble sleeping and feel as if their ears are plugged. It is not uncommon for a person to encounter the loss of smell or taste. If the hay fever is bad enough, nose bleeding could also occur. A person with hay fever might also have problems concentrating or focusing. Allergic rhinitis can also lead to more severe problems, such as asthma or sinus problems.
Signs of Hay Fever
There are certain things that you should look for that could be a sign of hay fever. Tree pollen, grasses or weeds are some outdoor indications that an individual might begin to suffer from the disorder. Some indoor signs might include cockroaches, pet hair, grass pollen or mold. An individual should also watch the pollen count to see if conditions are favorable for them to experience hay fever. Grasses normally pollinate from May to August.
It is sometimes difficult to discern hay fever from the common cold. With hay fever, there is a runny nose, but no fever. A person should know that they have this ailment if they have recently been exposed to allergens. In addition, a cold will go away within a week, but hay fever will stay around as long as a person is around allergens.
Hay Fever can make you uncomfortable and hurt your ability to effectively do a job or interfere with daily activities. Individuals can fight the ailment, so that they can live life to the fullest.