Health A-Z

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold spores. Here's an overview of its symptoms, treatment plan, and diagnosis testing.

1. Sneezing: Frequent bouts of sneezing, especially in response to exposure to allergens.
2. Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion, runny nose (rhinorrhea), or postnasal drip.
3. Itchy or Watery Eyes: Red, itchy, and watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis).
4. Itchy Throat or Palate: Irritation or itching sensation in the throat or roof of the mouth.
5. Coughing: Dry or coughing fits, particularly when postnasal drip irritates the throat.
6. Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued due to disrupted sleep caused by nasal congestion or other symptoms.
7. Headache: Headaches may occur due to sinus congestion and pressure.
8. Decreased Sense of Smell or Taste: Reduced ability to smell or taste, often due to nasal congestion.

1. Allergen Avoidance: Minimize exposure to allergens by keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using air purifiers, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak pollen times.
2. Nasal Irrigation: Use a saline nasal rinse or nasal spray to flush out allergens and relieve nasal congestion.
3. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamine medications can help relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose symptoms.
4. Nasal Steroids: Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and can help relieve nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
5. Decongestants: Over-the-counter decongestants may help relieve nasal congestion, but they should be used with caution and for short periods to avoid rebound congestion.
6. Eye Drops: Antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops can help relieve itchy, red, and watery eyes.
7. Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (allergy tablets or drops) may be recommended for individuals with severe hay fever symptoms that do not respond to other treatments.

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will inquire about symptoms, triggers, and medical history, and perform a physical examination.
2. Allergy Testing: Allergy tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests (specific IgE tests), may be performed to identify specific allergens triggering hay fever symptoms.
3. Nasal Endoscopy: In some cases, a nasal endoscopy may be performed to evaluate the nasal passages for signs of inflammation or other abnormalities.
4. Diagnostic Challenges: Differential diagnosis may involve distinguishing hay fever from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as viral upper respiratory infections or non-allergic rhinitis.