Seasonal Allergy

Seasonal Allergy

The term Seasonal allergy also known as  “hay fever” is nothing but the occurrence of allergy symptoms on certain times of the year. These seasonal allergy are usually caused by

Pollen

Grasses

Weeds

Mold spores etc

Seasonal allergy can occur at any age.

Signs and Symptoms

• 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 presented above symptoms each and every year, 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 but to find out the cause of symptoms the skin prick test or blood test need t be done

Treatment

Reduce allergen exposure

Hand washin

keep the windows closed,

use air conditioning if possible

stay indoors when pollen/mold/weed counts are high

Medication

Medications include-

1. Antihistamines:

   Most common medicine used in mild to moderate allergic reaction.

Antihistamines include:

• Fexofenadine
• Levocetirizine
• Cetirizine
• Diphenhydramine
• Desloratadine
• Loratadine

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Immunotherapy:

   Your doctor may recommend immunotherapy, or allergy shots, if you have severe allergies. You can use this treatment plan in conjunction with medications to control your symptoms. These shots decrease your immune response to particular allergens over time. They do require a long-term commitment to a treatment plan.