Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction triggered by airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, animal hair, and fungal spores. When these allergens come into contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, or throat, they can provoke symptoms like itching, congestion, and sneezing. While hay fever symptoms often peak during pollen-heavy seasons, it can persist throughout the year depending on the allergen.
When Does Hay Fever Occur?
Hay fever commonly intensifies between late March and September, especially in warm, humid, and windy conditions when pollen levels are high.
Common Symptoms of Hay Fever
Symptoms of hay fever may include:
- Sneezing and coughing
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Itchy throat, nose, and ears
- Loss of smell
- Headache or pain around temples
- Earache
- Fatigue
Why Hay Fever Happens
Hay fever occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies pollen or other airborne particles as harmful, prompting an immune response. This leads to the release of chemicals like histamine, which cause classic hay fever symptoms.
Preventing Hay Fever Symptoms
While there is no cure, these measures can help reduce symptoms:
- Apply Vaseline or balm around your nostrils to trap pollen.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
- Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen.
- Stay indoors during high pollen counts.
- Keep windows and doors closed, and use a HEPA filter vacuum.
- Use pollen filters in car air vents.
What to Avoid with Hay Fever
To minimize symptoms, avoid:
- Cutting or walking on freshly cut grass.
- Spending prolonged time outdoors during high pollen counts.
- Keeping fresh flowers indoors.
- Smoking or exposure to smoke.
- Drying clothes outside where they can collect pollen.
- Allowing pets indoors if they’ve been outside during high pollen times.
Identifying High Pollen Days
Keep track of pollen counts, typically high from May to September. This information can help you plan to reduce exposure on days with elevated pollen levels.
Types of Pollen Allergies
There are three main types of pollen allergies, each peaking at different times:
- Tree pollen: Late March to mid-May
- Grass pollen: Mid-May to July
- Weed pollen: End of June to September
Knowing which pollen type triggers your symptoms can help you anticipate and manage them more effectively.
Hay Fever vs. Common Cold
While hay fever is sometimes called a "summer cold," there are key differences:
- Hay Fever: Runny nose with clear discharge; no fever; symptoms occur immediately after allergen exposure and continue as long as exposure persists.
- Common Cold: Runny nose with watery or thick yellow discharge; low-grade fever; body aches; symptoms appear 1-3 days after virus exposure and last about a week.
Managing Hay Fever with Asthma
Hay fever can worsen asthma symptoms, making it essential to control hay fever to manage asthma effectively. Both conditions affect the airways, and treating hay fever can help reduce asthma flare-ups.
Hay Fever in Children
Children can also experience hay fever, particularly between March and September. Keep a diary of their symptoms to identify potential triggers, and consult with your pharmacist for treatments suitable for children.
Treating Hay Fever During Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, consult your GP before starting any hay fever medication. Your GP can help you weigh the benefits and recommend safe treatments for symptom relief.
Effective Hay Fever Treatments
Over-the-counter remedies include:
- Antihistamines: Block histamine to reduce symptoms. Available in tablet or liquid forms for children.
- Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid sprays like Beclometasone or Fluticasone help reduce nasal inflammation.
- Eyedrops: Sodium cromoglicate eyedrops reduce eye irritation.
- Air Purifiers: HEPA filters can remove allergens from indoor air to reduce exposure.
Additional remedies like hay fever wipes and balms can help trap or remove pollen from your skin.
At McGorisk's Pharmacy, we offer a comprehensive selection of hay fever treatments to help you find the relief you need. Visit us to explore our products and say goodbye to hay fever discomfort!