Allergies/Hay Fever

What are allergies and hay fever?

Symptoms of hay fever include coughing, sneezing, itchy throat and eyes, and clear nasal discharge. Some common causes of allergies include pollen, mold or mildew, animal dander, and dust mites. Seasonal allergies occur when symptoms return at the same time each year and are usually due to pollen and grasses.

How can I treat allergies and hay fever at home?

You can try to limit time spent outdoors when pollen counts are high (generally in the spring). You should try to keep your bedroom as dust-free as possible and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. You should also talk with your physician about long-acting, non-sedating antihistamines and nasal steroids. Symptoms often respond to antihistamines such as Benadryl®, chlortrimeton®, or Claritin®.

When should I seek professional care?

You should seek medical attention for any of the following:

• If you experience difficulty breathing.
• If you find that you are wheezing.
• If you feel tightness in your throat.
• If you have any sign of infection.

Are there ways to prevent allergies or hay fever?

There are no reliable prevention techniques for hay fever other than avoiding substances that you know cause allergic symptoms.