Hay fever, commonly known as allergic rhinitis, results in symptoms similar to a cold. Runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing, and sinus pressure are just a few of these symptoms. But hay fever isn’t brought on by a virus like a cold is. Hay fever is brought on by an allergic reaction to an indoor or outdoor chemical that the body mistakenly perceives as harmful (allergen).
Pollen and dust mites are two typical allergens that can cause hay fever symptoms. Pet dander, which is the skin fragments that cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers shed, can also trigger allergies.
In addition to making your life miserable, hay fever can negatively impact your performance at work or school and generally interfere with your daily activities. But you are not required to put up with bothersome symptoms. You can discover the best course of treatment and learn to avoid triggers.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hay fever include:
- Runny nose and congestion in the nose
- Red, watery eyes that itch (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Itchy throat, nose, or roof of mouth
- Postnasal drip, or mucus that drips from the back of your throat
- Skin behind the eyes that appears swollen and bruised (allergic shiners)
- Extreme exhaustion, frequently brought on by a lack of sleep
Whenever to visit a doctor
Consult a medical professional if:
- You are unable to obtain respite from the symptoms of hay fever.
- Medication for allergies doesn’t work and has bothersome side effects.
- You have another ailment, like nasal polyps, asthma, or recurrent sinus infections, that makes your hay fever symptoms worse.
Many people, especially children, grow accustomed to the symptoms of hay fever, so they may wait until they are severe before seeking treatment. However, receiving the appropriate care might provide relief.
Administration and Therapy
How may allergic rhinitis be treated?
Many allergy drugs can reduce symptoms and make living with hay fever easier. These medications can be taken as liquids, pills, eye drops, nasal sprays, or injections, among other delivery methods. Before taking any drug, especially if you’re pregnant or have other health issues, consult your doctor.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are sold both with a prescription and without one (OTC). They function by preventing your body from releasing histamine in response to an allergic reaction. Pills, liquids, eye drops, nasal sprays, and inhalers are all forms of antihistamines. They consist of:
Claritin® (loratadine).
Zyrtec® contains cetirizine.
Allegra® contains fexofenadine.
Xyzal® (levocetirizine).
Antihistamines may make you feel sleepy. When taking antihistamines, stay away from alcohol, especially if you plan to drive.
Decongestants
These drugs help clear sinus and nasal congestion. Decongestants can be ingested orally (as pills or liquids) or applied topically via a nasal spray. They consist of:
Nasal spray Afrin®.
Nasal spray phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine®).
Sudafed® (pseudoephedrine).
Decongestants can raise blood pressure, bring on headaches, make it difficult to fall asleep, and make you irritable. If you use decongestant drugs for more than five days, they may become addictive.
Nasal sprays with corticosteroids
These sprays and inhalers lessen swelling and treat hay fever symptoms. The three most popular nasal sprays are Rhinocort®, Nasacort®, and Flonase®. Headaches, nasal irritability, nosebleeds, and cough are a few of the side effects.
Leukotriene blockers
Your body releases leukotrienes, histamine, and other substances during an allergic reaction, which lead to inflammation and hay fever symptoms. These prescription-only medications stop leukotriene. Montelukast (Singulair®), the most popular leukotriene inhibitor, is used. When taking this drug, some patients report mood swings, vivid nightmares, uncontrollable muscle movements, and skin rashes.
