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 What are seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis and hay fever?
They are all names for similar signs and symptoms. These symptoms can include:
• a clear nasal discharge
• an itchy nose with sneezing and sniffing
• itchy, watery, pink eyes (eye allergies)
• sometimes, sinus or ear congestion.
Hay fever is the most common allergy. More than 15% of people have it. Although pollen is usually the cause of hay fever, similar symptoms can also be caused by pets, farm animals, molds or something else. During April and May the most common pollen causing hay fever is from trees. In June and July, the pollen is usually from grass. From August until the first frost, the leading cause of hay fever is ragweed pollen.
This is a chronic condition that will come back every year during pollen season, perhaps for a lifetime. Therefore, it is important to learn how to manage it.
What to do…
• Oral antihistamine is the best medication for hay fever. It will relieve nose and eye symptoms.
Ask your doctor which one may be best for you.
• Nasal sprays for prevention
If the antihistamine does not work, severe hay fever can usually be controlled by prescription steroid nasal sprays.
Allergy shots are occasionally needed.
• Nasal washes
Use warm water or saline nose drops to wash pollen or other allergic substances out of the nose. Instill 2 or 3 drops in each
nostril, followed by blowing the nose. Repeat until open.
• Pollen removal to decrease symptoms of hay fever
pollen tends to collect on the exposed body surfaces and especially in the hair. Shower and wash hair every night before bed.
Avoid handling pets that have been outside and are probably covered with pollen.
• Eye allergies associated with hay fever
For itchy, watery eyes, wash face and eyelids to remove pollen or other allergic substances. Then apply a cold wet cloth to the
eyelids for 10 minutes. An oral antihistamine will usually bring the eye symptoms under control.
References: www.boystownpediatrics.com |
