Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction that primarily affects the sinus cavity and the eyes, according to MedlinePlus. Hay fever is triggered by different allergens such as pollen, dust or mold. Hay fever affects some people year-round, while others are affected only during the springtime when pollen and mold counts are higher than usual, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Hay fever is treated by avoidance of allergens or by taking antihistamines to prevent allergy symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com.
Cause
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to common household and environmental allergens that cause the immune system to react in an abnormal way, according to MedlinePlus. If the immune system doesn't recognize a particular substance, it will attempt to fight it off by releasing antibodies. The antibodies start a chain reaction that releases histamine from cells, leading to allergic reactions in the sinuses and eyes.
Effects
The effects of hay fever are similar to cold-like symptoms---such as nasal discharge, congestion, sneezing, coughing, post-nasal drip, fatigue, headache, sore throat, dark circles under the eyes, eye irritation and the inability to smell---according to MedlinePlus. The effects of hay fever begin once the person is exposed to the trigger and subside as soon as the allergen is removed.
Complications
MayoClinic.com states that hay fever can affect someone's quality of life due to the need to avoid certain allergen, and it can lead to a sinus infection, resulting from inflammation in the sinuses. A sinus infection could cause severe head pain and should be evaluated by a doctor. Children with hay fever are more prone to ear infections because of the increased amount of fluid in the head. Hay fever affects an individual's sleeping by constantly waking him up. It can also worsen asthma.
Treatment
Improve the negative effects hay fever can have by avoiding allergy triggers, according to MedlinePlus. For example, if someone is allergic to pollen, she should refrain from going outdoors during the springtime. Antihistamines and decongestants are common OTC drugs used to treat and prevent hay fever symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. In severe cases, an allergist will recommend immunotherapy to desensitize the immune system to the allergen.
Consideration
If hay fever symptoms are negatively affecting someone's life for an extended period of time, he should consult with his doctor for further evaluation. Hay fever is never accompanied by a rise in body temperature. A fever is a symptom of another condition and should be discussed with a doctor.
