What Causes Hay Fever?

Question: What Causes Hay Fever?

Answer:

Hay fever, which is more accurately called allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen. It is probably called hay fever because at a time when farming was a more common profession it was a common occurrence among farmers who worked in hay fields. But any plant pollen can cause hay fever. In the U.S., ragweed is a common culprit and normally grows from August to October. A doctor called an allergist can help you find out exactly what you are allergic to. While hay fever is mostly a seasonal condition it can be caused by mold or pet dander and can occur in the winter months as well as the summer. Symptoms of hay fever include:

• runny nose
• itchy, watery or swollen eyes
• sinusitis
• congestion
• sneezing

Treatment options for hay fever include avoiding the substance you're allergic to, allergy shots (available only via an allergist), and medications, including:

• antihistamines like diphenhydramine and loratadine
• decongestants like pseudoephedrine
• nasal sprays to control rhinitis (for example, Nasonex or Afrin)

For certain individuals it is vital that they see a doctor to prevent dangerous breathing problems associated with hay fever. You should see a doctor right away if you have symptoms of hay fever and:

• you have asthma
• you are a child
• you have gotten an itchy mouth from eating raw fruits or vegetables
• you have any difficulty breathing
• your face becomes swollen

Visiting an allergist can improve the quality of life for most people with hay fever. By working with your doctor you can learn to avoid the source of your hay fever and better control your symptoms.

_Sources:

_{American Academy of Asthma and Immunology. Ragweed, Allergies and Hay Fever. Accessed February 18, 2011 from http://www.aaaai.org/patients/topicofthemonth/0806/}

_{American Academy of Asthma and Immunology. Rhinitis and Sinusitis. Accessed: February 18, 2011 from http://www.aaaai.org/patients/gallery/rhinitissinusitis.asp}