A health condition caused by an allergic reaction to harmless outdoor or indoor substances that the body sees as harmful (allergens) is called Hay Fever or Allergic Rhinitis. The symptoms are very similar to those of a cold but the only difference is that hay fever is not caused by a virus. The most common symptoms include congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, sinus pressure, and sneezing.
Hay fever is usually caused by certain allergens including pollen and dust mites. However, small flecks of skin shed by dogs, cats, and other pets with fur, and feathers (pet dander) also can trigger this condition.
Despite the symptoms a person experiences due to hay fever, this condition can negatively affect performance at school or work. To prevent the symptoms, you have to learn and avoid the triggers and get proper treatment as well.
Symptoms
The following symptoms usually are noticed in people with hay fever. Examples include:
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose, throat, or roof of the mouth
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Runny or stuffy nose (congestion)
- Allergic shiners (swollen skin under the eyes)
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness) often caused by poor sleep
- Postnasal drip (it occurs when the mucus runs down the throat’s back)
Check also below some hay fever symptoms:
- Tree, grass, and ragweed pollen
- Cockroach droppings and dust mites
- Pet dander
- Spores from outdoor and indoor molds and fungi
What is The Difference between Hay Fever and The Common Cold?
These conditions are very similar but cause little different symptoms. Moreover, the symptoms last also differently. Check below some examples:
- Hay Fever – The symptoms include a runny nose with thin watery discharge and without fever. They last as long as you are exposed to the allergens.
- The Common Cold – Symptoms of this condition include runny nose with yellow and thick discharge, body aches, and low-grade fever. The duration of the symptoms ranges between 3 and 7 days.
Do not hesitate to visit a doctor if you cannot find the hay fever triggers, allergy medications do not lessen symptoms and cause adverse reactions, and if you have existing health problems that may worsen the symptoms caused by hay fever. For example nasal polyps, asthma, or recurrent sinus infections.
Additionally, most people (especially children) do not pay attention to hay fever symptoms until they become severe. However, getting the correct treatment can reduce the symptoms quite fast.
Causes
This condition occurs when the immune system produces antibodies (immunoglobulin E or IgE) for certain substances that are usually harmless (allergens). When the body’s defense (immune system) comes in contact with an allergen it releases some chemicals in the bloodstream (known as Histamine). The symptoms of hay fever occur when this reaction begins.
Risk Factors
You are at increased risk of developing hay fever in the following cases. For example:
- Working or living in an environment that exposes you to allergens constantly (including animal dancer or dust mites)
- Family history of allergies or asthma
- You experience certain health conditions (such as atopic dermatitis or eczema)
- People with other allergies or asthma
- Those who are exposed to smoke or strong outdoors that could irritate the nose lining
- If you are a mother who smoked during your first year of life, you are at increased risk of developing allergic rhinitis
Complications
People with hay fever, especially those who do not receive treatment, may experience the following complications. Examples include:
- Poor sleep – This condition may make you awake during nighttime or make it hard to stay asleep. As a result, you may experience fatigue and malaise (generally the feeling of being unwell).
- Sinusitis – If you experience sinus congestion for long periods it may lead to sinusitis. This is a health condition in which an infection or inflammation of the membranes that line the sinuses occurs.
- Ear infection – Middle ear infection (otitis media) also can occur in people with hay fever. In most cases, children with hay fever suffer from otitis media.
- Worsening of asthma – If you experience asthma, hay fever can worsen the symptoms including wheezing and coughing.
- Decreased quality of life – In most cases, hay fever interacts with enjoyment of the activities leading to reduced productivity. Those who suffer from hay fever symptoms usually miss work or school.
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent hay fever. The only thing you can do is to reduce the exposure to allergens and administer allergy medicines recommended by your doctor.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers usually diagnose this condition by performing a physical examination and asking questions about symptoms, medical history, and potential triggers. Moreover, they also can perform at least one of the following tests. Examples include:
- Allergy blood test – Doctors often perform this test to measure the body’s defense response to allergens. It also can measure the amount of antibodies (immunoglobulin E) in the bloodstream.
- Skin prick test – During this test, doctors will apply a small amount of allergen that is pricked into patches of skin on the upper back or the arm. If within 20 minutes an allergic reaction (a hive) occurs, it means you are allergic.
Treatment
Once the exact cause of hay fever is identified, physicians can develop an effective treatment plan that will help to lessen the symptoms and improve your quality of life. However, you should limit exposure to allergens and administer over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to relieve the symptoms. In more severe cases, doctors may recommend some prescription medications.
Finding the best medicine usually requires some time. In addition, not all hay fever medicines are approved to be used in children, read the labels carefully or consult with your doctor if your child experiences this condition. In most cases, doctors prescribe nasal saline rinses, immunotherapy, and medications for people with hay fever.
Medications
Nasal Corticosteroids
These medications are one of the most effective drugs for hay fever. They help to reduce nasal stuffiness, itchiness, and runny nose. Check below some medicines usually recommended by doctors:
- OTC nasal sprays – These include Fluticasone, Budesonide, Triamcinolone, and Mometasone.
- Prescription nasal sprays – These include a combination of medicines such as Azelastine and Fluticasone and Mometasone and Olopatadine.
Previous medications are safe for long-term use. Unpleasant smell or taste and irritation of the nose are the most common adverse reactions caused by nasal sprays.
Antihistamines
The immune system releases a chemical called Histamine in the bloodstream during an allergic reaction. This group of medications works by stopping the action of Histamine that helps to reduce itchiness and runny nose. Antihistamines usually come in pills, tablets, or nasal sprays. Moreover, there are some antihistamine eye drops that are effective for eye itchiness and irritation.
- OTC oral antihistamine medicines – These include Cetirizine, Fexofenadine, and Loratadine
- OTC eye drops – Ketotifen and Olopatadine (this active ingredient is also present in some prescription nasal sprays)
- Nonprescription nasal sprays – For example Azelastine
The most common negative effects of antihistamines include dry nose, eyes, and mouth. However, this group of drugs also may cause other adverse reactions including sleepiness, appetite changes, headaches, restlessness, sleeping disturbances (insomnia), and urinating and blood pressure issues. Furthermore, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with glaucoma or an enlarged prostate should discuss with a healthcare professional before taking antihistamines.
Decongestants
This group of medications is usually prescribed by doctors to lessen nasal stuffiness and pressure caused by swelling. Moreover, physicians may recommend decongestants along with antihistamines. This group of medicines is available in different forms including nasal sprays, tablets, and liquids. Check below some of them:
- Oral decongestants (such as Pseudoephedrine)
- Nasal decongestant sprays (including Phenylephrine hydrochloride and Oxymetazoline)
The possible side effects of decongestants include hypertension, insomnia (sleeping problems), irritability, and headaches. It also may cause some urinary problems, especially if you have an enlarged prostate gland.
Furthermore, you should not use nasal sprays more than 2-3 times daily because it may lead to worsening of the symptoms.
Cromolyn Sodium
This medication is recommended by doctors to prevent the release of Histamine. It is most effective if you begin to administer it before the symptoms start. Cromolyn sodium is available as an over-the-counter nasal spray (can be used several times daily) and a prescription eye drops. Moreover, Cromolyn sodium does not cause any serious adverse reactions.
Oral Corticosteroids
Healthcare providers usually recommend using oral corticosteroids for short periods due to an increased risk of certain health problems. For example cataracts, osteoporosis (brittle bones), and muscle weakness. They prescribe often Prednisone in tablet or pill form.
Leukotriene Modifier
This is a prescription medicine advised by physicians to block the action of Leukotrienes. These are specific immune system chemicals that provoke allergy symptoms (including nose irritation). Doctors usually prescribe Montelukast and it is very effective for allergy-induced asthma. The most common negative effect caused by this medicine is headaches. Rarely, Montelukast is associated with insomnia, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. That’s why you should discuss with your doctor about the risks and benefits before taking it.
Nasal Ipratropium
This medicine is available as a nasal spray and it helps to lessen severe runny nose. It works by stopping the glands in the nose that produce an increased amount of mucus. This medicine is not effective in treating congestion, sneezing, or itching.
The adverse reactions caused by this medication may be from mild to severe. Check below some of them:
- Mild adverse reactions – Nosebleeds, dry nose, irritated eyes, and sore throat.
- Severe side effects (rarely) – Blurred vision, dizziness, and urinating problems.
In addition, this medication should not be used if you have an enlarged prostate or glaucoma.
Immunotherapy
Allergy Shots
This procedure is called immunotherapy (sometimes desensitization therapy) which includes allergy shots that change how the body’s defense responds to allergens. If you do not notice any improvements using regular medications or experience too many negative effects, doctors usually recommend allergy shots. This therapy is quite effective against allergy to animal dander, dust mites, or pollen.
Allergy Tablets
These tablets can be used instead of allergy shots. They deliver a small amount of allergen that dissolves under the tongue (sublingual delivery). However, these medicines are ineffective for all allergen types but can help with grass, ragweed pollens, and dust mites.
Nasal Saline Rinses
Saline Nasal Spray
Physicians may also recommend along with previous treatment options saline nasal sprays that help to moist dry nasal passages and thin nasal mucus. These nasal sprays do not require a prescription and you can use them every time you need them.
Nasal Irrigation
This is a helpful procedure that helps to lessen nasal congestion. In other words, it helps quickly get rid of mucus and allergens from the nose. Saline irrigation (nasal irrigation) is a water-based solution that contains a small amount of sodium (salt) as well as other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary symptoms of hay fever?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have hay fever. For example:
- Runny and blocked nose
- Frequent sneezing
- Red, watery, or itchy eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Throat, mouth, nose, and ears itching
- Cough
What are the most common triggers of hay fever symptoms?
In most cases, people experience this health problem due to pollen and dust mites. However, other allergens include small flecks of the skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers. Discuss with your doctor for more details.
How long does hay fever last?
The duration of the symptoms is different among people from several days to weeks. If you have additional questions, ask your healthcare professional.
