Hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, is a condition caused by an allergic reaction to pollen. Pollen is a fine powder released by plants, which helps fertilize other plants. When someone with the disease breathes in pollen, their immune system reacts by releasing histamines. The condition causes symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Nevertheless, you can consult with your doctor for effective remedies.
What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
The symptoms of such a condition may include the following-
- Sneezing
- A runny nose
- Itchy, watery eye
- Coughing
- Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
- Loss of weight or weight gain due to a lack of hunger
- Nausea
In rare cases, people with hay fever may also experience-
- Vomiting
- Hoarseness
- Rashes with severe cases
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands in the neck area
More often than not, symptoms come into sight within a few hours to two days after contact with pollen. However, depending on the type of allergy, they may take weeks to develop after exposure to an allergen. If you experience these signs and symptoms, talk with your doctor for effective treatments.
What can trigger allergic rhinitis?
People susceptible to allergies can have an allergic reaction to one or more types of pollen. It is possible to be sensitive to many different types of pollen. However, in general, one particular type prevails. Many different types of pollen contribute to this disease in varying degrees, depending on where you live.
Grass Pollen
Grasses are the number one cause of hay fever, with tree pollen coming in second. In addition, weed pollen is also a key contributor and can be worse if you live near an open field or meadow. The time of year you are exposed to these pollens may determine your specific symptoms. For example, if you are sensitive to tree pollen, this may specify the duration and severity of your symptoms. Nevertheless, after identifying the exact of your condition, your doctor may begin with your hay fever treatment.
Tree pollen
Tree pollen is released in early spring and continues throughout summer into fall. This type of pollen can be dispersed widely. Moreover, you can observe it at various times during these seasons, depending on the species and geographical location.
Weed pollen
Weed flowers release their pollen in mid-to-late summer. However, grasses pollinate from early summer to late fall. If you are allergic to weed pollen, your symptoms may start in late summer and continue into the fall. Moreover, you may also experience symptoms from exposure to other types of pollen at different times during the year.
Many things can trigger your symptoms. In addition to pollen, other triggers of hay fever can include the following-
- Animal dander
- Dust mites
- Mold spores
- Cockroaches
- Smoke
- Strong perfumes or colognes
If you are susceptible to this allergic reaction, it is vital to be aware of all the possible triggers and take steps to avoid them. However, you cannot avoid some triggers completely. They may include pollen and mold spores. Even if you are undergoing the treatment, avoiding the triggers is crucial to prevent future complications. If you live in an area where trees and grasses are common, relevant allergens may be present to some degree throughout the year. Therefore, it is crucial to protect yourself from allergens as much as possible.
What medications can help treat allergic rhinitis?
Many medications can help treat hay fever. They may include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids. However, it is vital to talk to your doctor to find the best medication for you.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines come in many different forms. They include pills, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. They work by blocking the action of histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction. This action can help relieve symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
Decongestant
A decongestant is another remedy for hay fever. It can also alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis. They work by constricting the blood vessels to reduce nasal congestion. Moreover, it is available as pills, liquids, or sprays.
Nasal steroids
Nasal steroids help treat hay fever by reducing inflammation in the nose. It can lead to fewer allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and congestion. Moreover, nasal steroids are available as nasal sprays or drops.
It is important to remember that not everyone will respond to the same medications. Therefore, it is vital to work with your doctor to find the best treatment for you.
Can over-the-counter medications help?
If you are looking for over-the-counter (OTC) medications, check with your pharmacist to find which products are best for you. Some OTC medications that can help with your treatment include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids. Moreover, it is crucial to read the labels of these products and follow the directions carefully.
Some people may also need prescription-strength medications for their condition. You can talk to your doctor about the same concern.
How can you prevent allergic rhinitis?
Hay fever is the common name for ‘allergic rhinitis. It is an inflammatory disease in which the immune system reacts to allergens, like pollen. The main symptoms are sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Several medications can ease the symptoms of the disease. Moreover, natural remedies can also help reduce the symptoms.
Avoid the triggers
The best way to prevent allergic rhinitis is to avoid contact with the allergens that trigger your symptoms. If you know which allergens bother you, try to stay away from them as much as possible. For example, if pollen is the main allergen, stay inside during peak pollen season and keep the windows closed. You can also wear a pollen mask when you go outside.
You can do some things to reduce the exposure to allergens in your home and support your treatment. For example, you can keep the windows closed and use air conditioning. It may help keep the pollen out. In addition, you can also vacuum and dust regularly to remove any allergens from your home.
Do regular exercises
Exercise and a healthy diet can also reduce hay fever symptoms by strengthening the immune system. A healthy lifestyle may reduce your exposure to allergens and increase your overall health.
Wear sunglasses
Another thing that you can do is to wear sunglasses. It will protect your eyes from pollen. Moreover, you may also consider wearing a scarf over your face when outside. It will filter the air and reduce pollen exposure. In addition, some people find relief in antioxidant supplements, for example, vitamin C or E. These antioxidants help fight free radicals responsible for inflammation in the body.
Practice cleanliness
Be sure to wash your hands often and keep them away from the nose and eyes. Moreover, you can also use a saline nasal spray to clean your nose and support your treatment.
A healthy lifestyle may help prevent this allergy and boost your immunity and overall health. However, if you suspect your condition is a result of an allergy, visit a doctor to determine which allergen causes your symptoms.
Several medications and natural remedies can help you reduce the symptoms of hay fever. Therefore, do not hesitate to ask your doctor for advice.
