Summary about Disease
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to allergens like pollen, mold spores, dust mites, or pet dander. It causes inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages.
Symptoms
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy nose, throat, or eyes
Watery eyes
Cough
Fatigue
Headache (less common)
Sinus pressure
Causes
Hay fever is caused by exposure to allergens, most commonly:
Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
Mold spores
Dust mites
Pet dander (skin flakes, saliva, or urine from animals)
Medicine Used
Antihistamines: Reduce sneezing, itching, runny nose (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine, diphenhydramine). Available over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription.
Decongestants: Clear stuffy nose (e.g., pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine). Available OTC and prescription. Use with caution and not for prolonged periods.
Nasal corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone). Available OTC and prescription.
Cromolyn sodium nasal spray: Prevents the release of histamine, reducing allergic symptoms. Available OTC.
Leukotriene modifiers: Block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals involved in allergic reactions (e.g., montelukast). Prescription only.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy): Gradually desensitize the body to specific allergens. Requires a series of injections over several years.
Is Communicable
No, hay fever is not communicable. It is an allergic reaction and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Avoid allergens: Stay indoors when pollen counts are high, keep windows closed, use air conditioning, and avoid mowing the lawn or gardening during peak pollen times.
Wear a mask: When outdoors during high pollen seasons.
Wash clothes and shower: After being outdoors.
Use a HEPA filter: In your home to reduce allergens in the air.
Regularly clean: Your home to reduce dust mites and pet dander.
Monitor pollen counts: And plan activities accordingly.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of hay fever symptoms depends on the allergen and the length of exposure:
Seasonal Allergies (e.g., pollen): Symptoms typically last as long as the pollen season, which can be several weeks or months.
Perennial Allergies (e.g., dust mites, pet dander): Symptoms can occur year-round.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: A doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, and potential allergen exposures.
Skin prick test: A small amount of allergens is applied to the skin, and the skin is pricked. A raised, red bump indicates an allergy.
Blood test (allergen-specific IgE test): Measures the amount of IgE antibodies in the blood in response to specific allergens.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies depending on the individual and the allergen exposure. Generally:
Immediate Reaction: Within minutes of exposure, symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes can begin.
Prolonged Exposure: Symptoms can persist as long as the exposure to the allergen continues.
Post-Exposure: Symptoms can linger for a few hours or even a day after exposure ends, especially if inflammation is significant.
Important Considerations
Asthma: Hay fever can worsen asthma symptoms.
Sinus Infections: Untreated hay fever can lead to sinus infections.
Quality of Life: Hay fever can significantly impact sleep, concentration, and overall quality of life.
Children: Hay fever can affect children's school performance and behavior.
Consult a Doctor: If symptoms are severe or interfere with daily activities.
Self-treating: Be careful with long term use of decongestants without consulting a doctor.