The medical term for hay fever is allergic rhinitis. You can develop hay fever if you are allergic and exposed to irritants such as pollen, mold, dust mites or pet dander. It happens because your immune system interprets these substances as harmful and initiates an immune response. For some, hay fever occurs during certain seasons, while for others it is year round. Your symptoms can be mild, or they can be severe and interfere with work and daily activities. If you notice the signs and symptoms of hay fever, talk to your doctor about available treatment options.
Common Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic states that the symptoms of hay fever can mimic the symptoms of a cold. The difference is that hay fever symptoms usually occur immediately after you are exposed to the trigger. Cold symptoms usually develop over a period of days. You may have a runny or stuffy nose, post-nasal drip and your eyes can become watery and itchy. Fatigue, irritability, swollen eyelids and headaches are other symptoms associated with hay fever.
Additional Symptoms
According to the National Institutes of Health, you may begin to sneeze and cough and develop a sore or itchy throat. Sinus pain and an inability to smell and taste things are other signs. With hay fever you may also notice that the area under your eyes becomes swollen and bluish in color, in a condition called allergic shiners. This can also present itself as dark circles under your eyes.
Severe Symptoms
Get medical help if you notice severe allergic symptoms such as trouble breathing or asthma-like symptoms, chest pain, severe fatigue, confusion or a worsening of other medical conditions you may have.
