Hay fever: symptoms, causes and treatment

The allergens in the environment can have an impact on your health. Hay fever is a condition that can be caused by allergens. This is manifested by respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, headaches and hay fever, which can be the result of pollen, dust or air pollution. Although the allergy is widespread in the spring and fall months, it is not considered dangerous. There are simple lifestyle changes, as well as therapies and saline solutions, that can help you prevent fever and feel better. Avoiding allergens that can lead to the condition should also be avoided at all costs.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever, scientifically called allergic rhinitis, is a form of allergy caused by environmental factors such as pollen from various plants, molds and pet fur. A study published by the National Institutes of Healthstates that hay fever affects the upper respiratory tract. “Common complaints associated with hay fever include heavy sneezing, watery eyes, runny or stuffy noses and excessive fatigue at certain times of the year, especially in spring and autumn,” explains ENT. Dr. Jyotirmay S. Hegde. However, hay fever can be controlled with various medications, nasal sprays and avoidance of allergens.

Symptoms of hay fever

To determine if someone has hay fever, he or she can check for the presence of the following common symptoms:

• Sneezing: Episodes of frequent and uncontrollable sneezing fits.
• Runny or stuffy nose: Clear watery discharge from the nose or nasal congestion (congestion).
• Itchy eyes: Red, watery or scratchy eyes, also with swelling.
• Itchy throat or mouth: A feeling of tickling in the throat, which causes a feeling of discomfort.
• Cough: A dry cough associated with post-nasal drip.
• Fatigue: An abnormal condition in which you feel tired or have no energy, especially during allergy season.
• Headache: The feeling of fullness in the sinuses can also lead to headaches.

What are the causes of hay fever?

Many environmental factors play a role in the development of the fever:

1. Pollen

From March to September, trees in the US usually have the highest pollen content. This is followed by grasses in late spring or summer, and then there is green pollen again in late summer or autumn, usually from weeds> This can lead to hay fever. states a study, published in Scientific reports. When inhaled, pollen grains can damage the immune system, causing sneezing or itchy eyes, among other things. Pollen allergies in children are also common.

2. Mold spores

Mold spores and growth can be found in any damp area, both indoors and outdoors, as they are easily released into the air, especially when there is high humidity. These can also cause allergic reactions. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that these spores get into your nose and cause symptoms of rhinitis. These then end up in the lungs and cause asthma.

3. Dust mites

Dust mites are microscopic parasites found year-round in fabric, carpets, bedding and furnished furniture. Their feces and parts of it can become airborne and cause an allergic reaction in humans. However, a research paper published by the National Institutes of Healthstates that dust mites do not always cause hay fever. They usually cause milder symptoms than those of hay fever.

4. Cockroach droppings

These insects are usually found in places such as kitchens and bathrooms. They also possess the ability to cause allergies through their feces, saliva or shedding of body parts. The American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunologystates that the saliva, feces, and repellent body parts of cockroaches cause both asthma and allergies. When these are kicked into the air, they affect our health.

5. Other environmental factors

Air pollution in the form of smoke and other harmful gases can promote the development of allergic reactions. Climatic conditions such as high heat, low humidity and high winds also often aid in the spread of pollen in the environment, while wet weather conditions promote the growth of fungi. All this can lead to hay fever. Research published by the Medical University of Viennastates that the main parameters of air pollution parameters such as matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and ozone cause an increase in the severity of the symptoms of pollen allergies.

Diagnosis of hay fever

To determine whether a person has hay fever, his or her medical history is often reviewed in detail, outlining symptoms, onset, duration, and associated signs that may involve a reaction to specific allergens.
The next step is a physical examination of the patient, particularly assessing the nose and throat for signs of inflammation and swelling.

When diagnosing hay fever, allergy tests can also be performed to identify risk allergens or blood tests that measure the IGE level in the blood. “Additionally, a nasal endoscopy using flexible tubes with cameras on the ends can be performed to check the nasal cavity for any problems,” says Dr. Hegde.

How to treat hay fever?

There are a few ways to treat this allergic condition:

1. Activate avoidance

It is important to avoid allergens that could potentially cause the condition. This may include being indoors during high pollen levels, especially early morning and late afternoon, with windows closed. Other strategies include putting on clean clothes and bathing to rid the body of pollen after being outdoors.

2. Immunotherapy

This treatment may work for people who report persistent symptoms. It includes shots that gradually reduce a person’s sensitivity to allergens or dissolvable tablets that are placed under the tongue and are much easier to take at home.

3. Alternative therapy

Saline nasal rinses help remove allergens and help with swelling. Butterbur extracts can also help relieve symptoms, but one should consult a doctor before using any herbal treatment.

4. Lifestyle changes

The influence of smoke in the field of health is enormous. Changing your current schedule to ensure you include anti-inflammatory elements, keeping the environment clean, and using HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners and air purifiers can additionally ease symptoms and improve overall health.

How to prevent hay fever?

People with hay fever can take various preventive measures. When you come from outside, it is best to shower and change clothes to remove any allergens. Additionally, knowing when pollen counts are high or low helps you understand the best times to go outside. This helps reduce exposure to triggers. Adhering to all these preventive measures helps reduce the risk of hay fever.

Is hay fever dangerous?

Hay fever is generally not considered dangerous, but good management and maintenance are important to avoid getting sick often and live a healthy life.