Every
year millions of people in the UK suffer from hay fever. At least 1 in 10
people in the UK have hay fever. It usually first develops before the age
of 20 and then lessen by the age of 30 or 40. Hay fever is a misleading term
because it neither occurs in autumn when hay
gathers nor fever its main symptom.
 Causes of Hay fever is caused when the body's defences over react to pollen
released into the air by plants. The pollen causes release of a substance called
Histamine from cells in the skin. Histamine irritates the upper respiratory
passages, making them swell and producing the typical hay fever symptoms. Hayfever
often runs in families, and is also related to asthma and eczema. People with
hay fever often have a close relative with one or more of these conditions.
Often coined as allergic rhinitis, hay fever is of two types: Seasonal
allergic rhinitis Hay fever is a seasonal condition. People with hay
fever are allergic to pollen and spores. Pollen is the tiny, dust-like particles
given off by certain types of trees, grasses, weeds and flowers. Spores are
given off by fungi and moulds. Grass pollen is the most common cause. Less common
causes are tree pollens and moulds. In some people, hay fever-like symptoms
occur all year round. This condition is called 'perennial allergic rhinitis'
(or perennial rhinitis). This is usually caused by an allergy to things (or
allergens) present in everyday life, such as house-dust mites, furry or feathery
animals, certain chemicals or some foods.
Symptoms : A runny, itchy nose; stuffed and blocked nose; itching
in the throat; sore throat, sneezing, itchy and watery red eyes; itchy ears.
Headaches (also known as sinusitis). Disturbed sleep. Loss of
concentration feeling unwell. Sweating. Loss of taste and smell. Asthma
symptoms: Tight chest, breathlessness, coughing and
wheezing. The common cold can
often be confused with hay fever
and perennial rhinitis because they
all cause similar symptoms. However,
a cold normally lasts for around
a week. Sneezing, a running |
|
nose
and itchy eyes which persist for a few weeks may well be due to either seasonal
allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or perennial rhinitis.
PREVENTIVE TIPS To lessen symptoms you need to avoid contact with the
allergens, which cause your symptoms. To prevent hay fever try the following
tips: Check the pollen forecast on the television or in the newspaper before
going outside. Avoid going outdoors and stay indoors when the pollen count is
usually at its highest. Keep doors and windows closed when the pollen count
is high. This is usually in mid morning, late afternoon or early evening. Wear
sunglasses when outdoors. Keep your car windows closed. Change and wash your
clothes after going out, shower and wash your hair when you get back in. Avoid
mowing the lawn or weeding. If you need to work in these environments consider
wearing a mask and goggles. Try to stay out of places with lots of grass, like
parks or fields. Keep your bedding clean. Hot wash all bedding at least once
a week. Dust with damp cloth and vacuum your house regularly to minimise the
presence of dust. Avoid drying your clothes outside. But if you do, give them
a good shake before bringing them back into the house. Airing bedclothes in
direct sunlight is also helpful.
Use an air conditioner or filter when possible, at home, work, and in the car,
to remove pollen and other allergens from the air. Avoid having pets but if
you do, bathe them regularly, keep them outside and never allow them in the
bedroom. Keep fresh flowers out of the house. Splash your eyes with cold water
regularly. This will help flush out any pollen. It will also soothe and cool
your eyes. Smear Vaseline inside your nose. It helps to stop pollen and spores
from settling on the lining of your nose. Stop smoking.
TREATMENT There are many treatment options available, including tablets,
nose drops and sprays, and eye drops.
Consult your Doctor. |
