Allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as hay fever, is a common condition caused by allergens such as pollen, mold spores, animal dander, dust, foods and medications. MayoClinic.com estimates that hay fever affects as much as 20 percent of the United States population. Symptoms of hay fever are often seasonal, but can also last year-round. Hay fever causes cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, sneezing, congestion and, most commonly, a cough.
Post-Nasal Drip
Hay fever often results in post-nasal drip; mucus irritates the throat and causes a cough. The American Academy of Otolaryngology reports that the glands in the nose and throat normally produce 1 to 2 qt. of mucus a day. Hay fever causes the glands to increase the amount of thin, clear mucus that is secreted. This mucus, normally produced to clean the nasal passage and trap foreign matter, runs into the throat; coughing is the bodies attempt to rid itself of this irritation.
Symptoms Accompanying a Cough
The coughing that accompanies hay fever is caused by inhaling allergens. While allergens vary based on individual genetics and environmental factors, MedlinePlus reports that a hay fever cough is often accompanied by a stuffy nose, itchy throat and wheezing. It is common for shortness of breath and red, swollen eyes to occur with the cough.
Symptoms Requiring Medical Attention
While coughing is a normal and usually harmless response to allergens, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends seeing an allergy specialist if patients experience a cough that lasts 3 to 8 weeks or more, a cough that co-exists with asthma or a chronic cough with nasal symptoms. Emergency medical care should be sough if coughing cannot be controlled, or leads to shortness of breath or other breathing-related emergencies.
