Seasonal allergic rhinitis, often referred to as "hay fever," affects more than 35 million people in the United States. These seasonal allergies are caused by substances called allergens. Airborne pollens and mold spores are outdoor allergens that trigger symptoms during the spring and fall. During these times, seasonal allergic rhinitis sufferers experience increased symptoms- sneezing, congestion, a runny nose, and itchiness in the nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes, and ears-depending on where they live in the country and the exact allergen to which they are allergic.
Effects of weather and location: Weather can influence hay fever symptoms. Allergy symptoms are often minimal on days that are rainy, cloudy or windless, because pollen does not move about during these conditions. Hot, dry and windy weather signals greater pollen and mold distribution and thus, increased allergy symptoms.
If you are allergic to plants in your area, you may believe that moving to another area of the country will help to lessen your symptoms. However, many pollens (especially grasses) and molds are common to most plant zones in the United States. Additionally, other related plants can also trigger the same symptoms. Many who move to a new region to escape their allergies find that they acquire allergies to new airborne allergens prevalent in their area within one to two years.
Appropriate treatment- not escape- is the best method for coping with your allergies.
If your seasonal allergy symptoms are making you miserable, see your allergist/immunologist, who will take a thorough history and conduct tests, if needed, to determine exactly which pollens or molds are triggering your symptoms. To lessen your symptoms, your doctor may also prescribe an allergy nose spray, non-sedating antihistamine, decongestant or other medications.
Following are some tips that you may want to follow during allergy season to lessen your exposure to the pollens or molds that trigger your allergy symptoms.
DO keep windows closed at night to prevent pollens or molds from drifting in.
DO minimize early morning activity when pollen is usually emitted- between 5-10 a.m.
DO keep car windows closed while traveling.
DO try to stay indoors when the pollen count is high, and on windy days when dust and pollen are blown about.
DON'T mow lawns or be around freshly cut grass; mowing stirs up pollen and molds.
DON'T rake leaves, as this also stirs up molds.
DON'T take more medication than recommended in an attempt to lessen symptoms.
DON'T hang sheets or clothing out to dry. Pollen and molds may collect in them.
Allergy Medications
Oral antihistamines (over-the-counter, prescription): These medications relieve sneezing, itchy, runny nose, and eye symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine. They are less effective in relieving nasal congestion.
Decongestants (over-the-counter, prescription): Available in liquid, tablet, and nasal spray forms. These medications relieve nasal congestion by shrinking blood vessels in the nose. They are not helpful in relieving other nasal symptoms. Don't use over-the-counter nasal sprays for more than a few days in a row because continued use can actually cause nasal congestion, referred to as rebound congestion.
Anti-inflammatory nasal sprays (prescription): Corticosteroid nasal sprays are the most effective treatment for hay fever. These medications relieve nasal congestion, sneezing, and an itchy, runny nose by reducing nasal inflammation. These nasal sprays can take 3-10 days to provide maximum relief, so start them before the season hits or on the first day of your symptoms. Give them an adequate trial, as you can't expect results after the first day of use. Nasal sprays do not relieve allergic eye symptoms.
Eyedrops (over-the-counter, prescription): Drops containing antihistamines or decongestants can help relieve itchy eyes.
Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Mayo Clinic Health Information.