Symptoms of Hay Fever:

Hay fever is characterized by inflammation of the nasal passages and sometimes the throat, triggered by allergens such as pollen.
Common symptoms include:

1. Sneezing

2. Runny or blocked nose

3. Itchy or watery eyes

4. Itchy throat, nose, or ears

5. Fatigue

6. Coughing

7. Loss of smell

Note: These symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen during specific seasons when pollen counts are higher.

Causes of Hay Fever:

Hay fever is primarily caused by an allergic reaction to pollen from grasses, trees, or weeds. When pollen comes into contact with the nose, eyes, or throat of an allergic person, the immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful and releases chemicals such as histamine to defend against it. This immune response leads to the symptoms associated with hay fever.

Management and Treatment:

Managing hay fever involves a combination of avoidance strategies, medication, and allergen immunotherapy. Alfa Medics, and official Irish healthcare resources as well recommend the following approaches for managing hay fever:

1. Avoidance Strategies:

   • Monitor pollen forecasts: Check daily pollen counts, which are often available through weather reports or online resources. Stay indoors when pollen counts are high, particularly during the morning and evening.

   • Close windows and doors: Keep windows and doors closed during peak pollen seasons to prevent pollen from entering your home.

   • Use air conditioning: Use air conditioning units with pollen filters to purify indoor air and reduce exposure to pollen.

   • Dry laundry indoors: Avoid hanging laundry outside during high pollen seasons, as pollen can stick to clothes and exacerbate symptoms.

2. Medication:

   • Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamine medications can help alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose by blocking the effects of histamine.

   • Nasal corticosteroids: Prescription nasal sprays containing corticosteroids can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, relieving symptoms like congestion and nasal itching.

   • Decongestants: Oral or nasal decongestants can help alleviate nasal congestion, but should be used sparingly and for short periods due to potential side effects.

3. Allergen Immunotherapy:

   • Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, involves gradually exposing the individual to increasing doses of allergens to desensitize the immune system over time. This treatment can reduce the severity of hay fever symptoms and may provide long-term relief.