Hay fever is also known as allergic rhinitis and normally caused due to an allergic reaction to pollen. Allergy is very common illness and it is generally caused by peanuts, shellfish, eggs, milk, dust, insect bites and pollen. Since pollen carried by the wind, avoid being near to some common plants releasing these pollen grains in the air. Trees like olive, lime, poplar, plane, horse chestnut, hornbeam, willow, alder, hazel, birch etc. are responsible in causing hay fever. Grass pollen from rye and timothy are contributing a lion share of 90% of the total hay fever cases. The effect of hay fever differs from person to person as some of them are suffering from mild or severe reactions. The visible symptoms are inclusive of coughing, headache, itching nose, running nose and sneezing. One might experience weakened smelling functions and sensitivity to flavors. The eyes will be moist from the irritation in the nose; sore throat, wheezing and conjunctivitis are also some of the common reactions observed. Looking at the history of symptoms, a doctor can diagnose hay fever. Skin testing is also performed to decide specific sensitivity to specific allergens. It says prevention is better than cure; try to cover your face with protective mask for filtering pollen while going out during early mornings and evenings when the level of pollen is high. The clothes kept outside also catch pollen and come into the contact with body when the clothes are worn and cause the allergic reaction. Avoid moving on the lawn as the pollen in the air increase the chances for hay fever attack. It is advisable to apply some cream on the nostrils and around the eyes to prevent pollen from attacking these areas. The available medications are inclusive of antihistamines of slow, fast and longer act, Leukotriene receptor antagonists, corticosteroid nasal sprays, topical decongestants, cromolyn sodium, allergy shorts and herbal remedies. These medicines are proved effectual on the attack of hay fever. Avoid driving or operating heavy machineries as these medications contains drowsiness.
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