Seasonal allergy means occurrence of allergy symptoms on certain times of the year. This is also known as “hay fever”.
Causes of Seasonal allergy are
- Pollen
- Grasses
- Weeds
- Mold spores etc
Seasonal allergy can occur at any age.
Signs and Symptoms of Seasonal Allergy
- Sneezing
- Runny Nose
- itchy nose and/or throat
- nasal congestion
- coughing
- These symptoms are often associated with itchy, watery, and/or red eyes, which is called allergic conjunctivitis.
When an individual having above symptoms each and every year, in a particular season, he may have seasonal allergy. Seasonal allergy may aggravate pre-existing asthma or wheeze.
Diagnosis of Seasonal Allergy
Diagnosis of Seasonal allergy is easy due to seasonal pattern of the symptoms.
skin prick test or blood test may be necessary to find out the cause of symptoms.
Treatment of Seasonal Allergy
- Reduce allergen exposure
- Hand washing
- keep the windows closed,
- use air conditioning if possible
- stay indoors when pollen/mold/weed counts are high
- Medication
Medications include-
- Antihistamines:Most common medicine used in mild to moderate allergic reaction.
Antihistamines include:
- Fexofenadine
- Levocetirizine
- Cetirizine
- Diphenhydramine
- Desloratadine
- Loratadine
- Decongestants:
Decongestant can be used to relieve a stuffy nose and sinus pressure. But decongestant can only be used for shorter time usually for three days. Longer time can cause a rebound effect, means once you stop the medicines your symptoms will actually get worsen.
Decongestants include:
- Oxymetazoline
- Pseudoephedrine
- Phenylephrine
- Cetirizine with pseudoephedrine
One should be keep in mind that history of abnormal heart rhythm, heart disease, history of stroke, anxiety, a sleep disorder, high blood pressure, or bladder issues is important before commencing decongestant medication.
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Eye drops and nasal sprays:
Eye drops and nasal sprays can help relieve itchiness and other allergy-related symptoms for a short time. However, depending on the product, you may need to avoid long-term use.
Like decongestants, overusing certain eye drops and nose drops can also cause a rebound effect.
- Corticosteroids:Corticosteroids can help with inflammation and immune responses. These do not cause a rebound effect. Steroid nasal sprays are commonly recommended as a long-term, useful way to manage allergy symptoms. Nasal steroid medications are most effective medications.
