Definition:
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, causes cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, sneezing and sinus pressure. But unlike a cold, hay fever isn't caused by a virus, but by an allergic response to indoor or outdoor airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander.
Diagnosis:
The doctor will perform physical tests such as skin prick test and allergy blood test.
Treatment:
Medications for hay fever include nasal corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, antihistamines, decongestants, cromolyn sodium, leukotriene modifiers, and nasal atropine.
Symptoms and Signs:
Signs and symptoms of hay fever typically develop immediately after exposure to specific allergy-causing substances (allergens) and can include: runny nose and nasal congestion; watery or itchy eyes; sneezing; coughing; itchy nose, roof of mouth, or throat; sinus pressure and facial pain; swollen, blue-colored skin under the eyes; and decreased sense of smell or taste.
Causes:
During a process called sensitization, the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless airborne substance as something harmful. The immune system then starts producing allergy-causing antibodies. The next time a person comes in contact with the substance, these antibodies recognize it and signal the immune system to release chemicals such as histamine into your bloodstream. These immune system chemicals cause a reaction that results to the irritating signs and symptoms of hay fever.
Hay fever can be triggered by either seasonal or year-round allergens. Many people have allergy symptoms all year long, but their symptoms worsen during certain times of the year.
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