Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

Allergic Rhinitis is the medical term for Hay Fever, which is a type of allergy not usually, in fact, caused by hay. This may result in sneezing, congestion and eye irritation. Other symptoms may include a loss of smell, a cough, nose bleeding in severe conditions, and tearing in the eyes.

What Causes the Allergic Reaction?

This usually happens when the body attacks a harmless substance known as an allergen. When this has access to the body, the body itself will take war against it, producing antibodies to fight the allergens. Cells get injured in this process and reduce a chemical known as histamine which causes allergic reactions.

Hay fever itself is caused by proteins in pollen of trees, grass or weeds. This can be spread in the wind and is present in the air. The allergy to pollen is present from birth, and about a quarter of those who suffer from hay fever also have asthma.

The Treatment of Allergies

These allergies can be treated in a number of ways, though avoidance is always the most successful way of reducing symptoms. However, since this is not always easy other measures may also be required. Antihistamines are medications against the affects of the histamine chemical. These are able to protect tissues from an allergic response but cannot stop the allergic reaction in itself.

To help the symptoms of allergy many people use decongestants which shrink any swollen membranes in the nose to make it easier to breather. They are usually taken through a nasal spray or orally. However, these should not be taken for too long without advice from a doctor. Some people will have specialised prescription medication for their allergies, which include corticosteroids, cromolyn and ipratropium.

Other modes of treatment include allergy desensitization therapy which helps by gradually increasing doses of allergens into the patient, where a supervised allergic reaction will occur. This stops the body from taking war against the allergens when they come into contact in the future and is very effective against pollen. It can take up to a year to become effective so requires frequent visits to the doctor.