Hay Fever

For many, spring is a time to defrost after winter, get outside and enjoy the sun again. But for some, spring brings with it the symptoms of hay fever, which can make it hard to enjoy. Here, we’ll go through what hay fever is and how you can manage it.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is the common name for allergic rhinitis. It is caused by the nose and/or eyes coming into contact with environmental allergens, such as pollens (grasses, weeds or trees), dust mite, moulds and animal dander.

Hay fever is often associated with spring, when airborne grass pollens are at their peak. However, hay fever can occur at any time of the year. This is known as perennial allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms of hay fever

Some of the immediate signs and symptoms of hay fever include:

  • runny nose
  • itchy nose
  • sneezing
  • itchy, watery eyes.

In some cases, the symptoms of hay fever can be so severe that a person can’t sleep or concentrate and may feel tired or unwell.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction

The tiny hairs and mucus that line the nasal passages act as a filter to trap dust and pollen. A person with hay fever is allergic to some of the particles that get trapped in the nose.

An allergic reaction means the immune system treats a harmless substance as if it is dangerous, and launches an ‘attack’. The nasal passages become inflamed and more mucus is produced.

Managing your hay fever

Identifying the allergen/s causing the symptoms is an important part of managing hay fever. In some cases the cause may be obvious, but some may require the use of evidenced based allergy tests.

Some medications may help relieve the symptoms of hay fever. You may be advised by your GP or pharmacist to try:

  • Antihistamine tablets, syrups and eye drops – help to reduce mild symptoms (sneezing, itchy and irritating eyes). The advantage of antihistamines is their flexibility, as you can take them only when symptoms occur.
  • Intranasal corticosteroid sprays (INCS) – these nasal sprays are effective at managing moderate to severe symptoms. They need to be used regularly as directed to be effective, and sometimes come combined with an antihistamine.
  • Decongestant nasal sprays – useful for quick relief, but should not be used for more than a few days as long-term use can damage the lining of the nose. Certain people should not use decongestants (such as those who are pregnant, or have high blood pressure).
  • Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) –  a clinical immunology/allergy specialist exposes a person to gradually increasing amounts of an allergen to improve tolerance and reduce symptoms.

Suggestions to reduce symptoms

To prevent or limit symptoms of hay fever, minimise exposure to known allergens.

  • Wash sheets, pillow cases and other bedding weekly in hot water.
  • Remove visible mould by cleaning with mould reduction cleaners.
  • Remain indoors (when possible) during pollen seasons, particularly on windy days or after thunderstorms.
  • Avoid working with garden compost, mulch or mowing lawns.

For more information about identifying and managing hay fever symptoms, go to https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hay-fever

Source: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hay-fever

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