Do you also sneeze frequently at times? Does your nose run and discharge a mucus-like liquid? Or do you have a stuffy nose and red, itchy eyes? Most of the time, we think this is a common cold, but it could actually be an allergic condition called 'Hay Fever'. Let's learn more about this today.
What is Hay Fever?
Despite the word 'Fever' in the name, Hay Fever is not a fever. The correct medical name for it is Allergic Rhinitis . Simply put, it is an allergy that occurs in our nose.
Our immune system is there to protect us from diseases. But sometimes, when things that are actually harmless, such as pollen and dust, enter our body, our immune system starts to fight them unnecessarily. That's when these allergy symptoms appear. In Hay Fever, these symptoms mainly affect the nose, but can also affect the eyes, skin and upper palate.
There are two main types of these allergies:
Depending on the causes, that is, allergens , that cause Hay Fever, this condition can be divided into two main categories.
| Type of allergy | Main triggers |
|---|---|
| Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis | These only appear at certain times of the year. For example, pollen from certain trees, certain grasses, and outdoor molds can cause this. |
| Perennial Allergic Rhinitis | These symptoms can occur at any time of the year. They are mainly caused by things that are found indoors. For example, dust mites , pet dander , cockroaches , and indoor mold. |
Some people may have both types, meaning they may have some symptoms throughout the year and be more severe during the pollen season.
Who is at higher risk of developing this?
Hay Fever can develop at any age, but it is most common before the age of 20. If you have the following conditions, your risk of developing Hay Fever is slightly higher.
- If you have other allergic diseases such as asthma or eczema .
- If your parents or siblings have allergies like this.
- If you are regularly exposed to allergens in your home or workplace.
- If your mother smoked before you were born or during pregnancy.
When should we see a doctor?
Many people try to live with these symptoms without treatment. But with the right treatment, these discomforts can be greatly reduced. If you are in a situation like this, you should definitely see a doctor.
- If these symptoms are making it difficult to perform your daily activities or disrupting your sleep.
- If the over-the-counter (OTC) medicines you are taking are not helping or are causing side effects .
- If you have other medical conditions such as asthma, chronic sinus infections , or nasal polyps along with hay fever.
Treating this early can be the best way to control your allergy condition.
What treatments does the doctor provide?
There are various treatments available to help manage your symptoms. It may take some time to find the right treatment for you. The most important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
Medications
| Drug type | Functionality and examples |
|---|---|
| Corticosteroid nasal sprays | Can be used long-term for symptoms such as nasal itching, runny nose, and congestion. For example: Budesonide, Fluticasone, Mometasone. |
| Antihistamines | These are available in the form of tablets, nasal sprays, and eye drops. They are very effective for symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes and skin. Modern drugs such as Cetirizine, Fexofenadine, and Loratadine are widely used because they cause less drowsiness. |
| Decongestants | They help reduce swelling inside the nose that causes nasal congestion. However, do not use these types of nasal drops or sprays for more than 5 days in a row. Doing so can cause your nose to become accustomed to them and make the condition worse. |
| Leukotriene modifier | They block the action of chemicals (leukotrienes) that increase the production of mucus in the immune system. These are useful for people with asthma and allergies. For example: Montelukast. |
Immunotherapy
This is a slightly different, long-term treatment. What you do here is slowly introduce very small doses of the allergen to your body, reducing your body's response to it. In other words, it makes your body accustomed to it.
- First step: A skin prick test is done to find out what you are allergic to.
- Step 2: Then, allergy shots containing the allergen are given gradually, or sublingual immunotherapy is given daily.
This treatment should only be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.
How do you avoid allergens?
Just as important as taking medication is staying as far away as possible from things that cause you allergies.
For Seasonal Allergies:
- Stay indoors as much as possible during peak pollen times and on windy days.
- Keep the windows closed. If there is air conditioning (AC), use it.
- Wear sunglasses when going outside to prevent pollen from getting into your eyes.
- Wear a mask if working outdoors.
For perennial allergies:
- Use dust mite-proof covers for pillows and mattresses.
- Always wash bedding and blankets in hot water.
- Reduce humidity in your home. Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pets. Avoid letting pets into your bedroom.
- If possible, use tile, titanium, or wood flooring instead of carpet.
Other things you can do at home
Saline rinses: Rinsing the inside of your nose using a saline solution available at a pharmacy or a Neti pot can help relieve nasal congestion and remove allergens and excess mucus. If you make your own saline solution, be sure to use boiled and cooled water.
Although some people use things like honey and vitamin C for this purpose, their effectiveness has not yet been scientifically proven. Also, be sure to talk to your doctor before using any herbal medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Hay Fever is not a flu, it is an allergy that occurs in the nose (Allergic Rhinitis).
- Frequent colds, sneezing, and itchy nose and eyes are the main symptoms.
- It is very important to identify your allergy triggers and stay away from them as much as possible.
- If symptoms are severe or interfere with daily life, be sure to seek medical advice.
- With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can control these symptoms and live a comfortable life.
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