Hay Fever, a debilitating condition for many, is also known as Allergic Rhinitis. This condition displays a wide variety of symptoms, making daily life miserable for sufferers of allergies.
The symptoms resemble that of a cold, including runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing, and sinus pressure; however, unlike a cold, Allergic Rhinitis is not caused by a virus. Hay Fever is caused by an allergic response to certain allergens; both indoor and outdoor. Allergies to pet dander, mold, pollen, or dust mites can all be responsible for Hay Fever symptoms. Allergic Rhinitis is a rather frequent condition, affecting at least one in every five people worldwide.
Some people unfortunately experience symptoms all year round, while others are only affected during certain seasons when pollen is excessive, depending on what they are allergic to. Allergic Rhinitis can make a person absolutely miserable, interfering with everyday activities such as school and work. It is important to learn how to control allergy symptoms to avoid being miserable. Avoiding allergen triggers as well as controlling symptoms with medication are key steps to feeling normal while suffering from Hay Fever. This article includes Hay Fever information to assist those who suffer with this condition.
Causes of Hay Fever
Hay Fever, also known as Allergic Rhinitis, is caused primarily when a foreign substance invades the body. This could be from breathing in an allergen such as pollen in the air or cigarette smoke. When a foreign substance is inhaled, the airways become affected which causes an allergic response. Other ways allergens can enter the body are through the skin, lining of the eyes, ears, or by swallowing. For example, pet dander can cause the skin to itch intensely if you come into direct contact with it and are allergic. Once an allergen has entered the body through the airways, eyes, ears, or skin, an allergic response begins. This happens because the immune system produces antibodies to fend off the foreign substance that has caused the allergic reaction. This is an overreaction by the immune system to try and protect the body from a harmless foreign substance.
Following this reaction are the symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, swelling, and sinus irritation. Important Hay Fever information includes knowing what triggers this condition. The most common trigger of allergies that cause Hay Fever is pollen. Pollen is released into the air from flowering plants.
After the pollen is released, it is carried in the air by the wind in the form of very small particles that can invade the body. Ragweed is one of the most common causes of Allergic Rhinitis affecting millions of people every year; commonly in the late summer season. To be able to put symptoms to a halt, it is essential that sufferers of this condition use the available Hay Fever information to assist them, as well as their physician.
Treatment of Hay Fever
There are many over-the-counter medications available to help reduce allergy symptoms. Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl is a common medication used to treat symptoms. Be aware when taking some of these medications however, because they may cause drowsiness. Also, to relieve symptoms of a sore throat, try gargling with warm salt water. Use a tablespoon of salt per eight ounces of water to improve a sore and scratchy throat caused by allergies. Furthermore, it is vital that one is aware of when they should visit their physician for treatment of their allergies. Use this Hay Fever information to assist in the decision if a visit to the physician is necessary. Everyone experiences allergies from time to time, however, it is important to know when there could be something else going on.
First of all, if over-the-counter medication is not assisting with the symptoms, it is advised to speak with your family doctor. Watch for other symptoms such as fever, a worsening sore throat, discharge from the eyes, severe earache or nasal discharge that is thick or bloody. A doctor can prescribe a prescription medication that may work better than an over- the counter medicine. Other important Hay Fever information includes knowing when the symptoms could be a medical emergency.
If discharge from the ears is present seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Also, when one is having trouble breathing, a trip to the emergency room is vital. Additionally, it is not normal for simple allergies to cause a high fever, so this should be evaluated at the E.R. right away. Any severe bleeding relating to the above symptoms is a definite medical emergency. There is no need to be miserable with Allergic Rhinitis. Speak with your physician for the best possible treatment option for you.
