Hay fever is a type of allergy caused by airborne irritants found naturally in the environment. Such pollen grains can come from trees, weeds and some grasses. Spring, summer and fall are often referred to as allergy season, because the pollens are more prolific during this time than during the winter months. Symptoms of hay fever can range from mild to severe.
Irritation
As soon as you're exposed to allergens, you may experience nasal and eye irritation. When the allergen enters your nose, it can cause you to sneeze in an attempt to get the allergen out of your nasal passages. It is likely that more than one pollen or allergen will make it into your nasal passages, making it more difficult to get rid of them. This is what causes some of the other mild allergy symptoms of hay fever, including itchy eyes, throat and the roof of your mouth. Once the pollens have been removed from your nose, the symptoms may diminish.
Congestion and Pain
Some allergy sufferers may experience a moderately runny nose with nasal congestion. Congestion of the nose occurs when the tissues become inflamed and swollen. It gives the sensation that the nose is full of fluids, but the mucus drainage is another one of the body's natural defenses against the pollens. Something called a post nasal drip can result and lead to bad breath. The congestion leads to pressure in the face where the sinuses are located. This includes the sinuses around the eyes and behind the eyes.
Swelling and Irritability
During peak hay fever season, you may struggle to find relief without the use of antihistamine medications. Persistent and moderate swelling of your sinuses and face can lead to bluish discoloration of the skin beneath your eyes. All symptoms of hay fever, especially if lasting several days, can contribute to your becoming irritable. You may struggle to fall asleep, despite being extremely tired. Asthma sufferers may experience an influx in asthma attacks.
