Hay Fever
How To Handle Hay Fever
Did you know that approximately 19% of the Australian population suffer from Hay Fever? (Australian Government, 2020). It is the most common allergic disorder in Australia and is most prevalent during the spring-summer seasons, so from 1 October to 31 December each year. Here at Shire Doctors and Dentists, we know all about Hay Fever. We recommend reading this article so that you can learn more about the condition, the signs you should look out for, and when to see a doctor.
What is Hay Fever?
Hay Fever is the common name for a condition called allergic rhinitis, which refers to an allergic reaction that can cause sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, and an itchy nose and throat.
What causes Hay Fever?
Hay Fever is the common name for a condition called allergic rhinitis, which refers to an allergic reaction that can cause sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, and an itchy nose and throat.
What causes Hay Fever?
When your nose or eyes come into contact with environmental allergens, your immune system processes these allergens as a threat and will release a chemical known as histamine that defends your body from the allergen. So, what are these environmental allergens? Some of the common Hay Fever triggers include:
- Pollen
- Grass
- Animal dander (skin shed by pets)
- Dust mites
- Mould spores
- Cat saliva
The primary forms of Hay Fever are:
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis: This refers to seasonal allergies that typically arise during the autumn, spring and winter months. It can include tree and grass pollen, mould spores and dust.
- Perennial allergic rhinitis: These are allergies that are present all year round and not just a season. It is normally caused by indoor allergens such as pet dander, dust mites or mould.
What symptoms should you look out for?
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Hives
- Excessive or recurring fatigue
- Recurrent sinus infections in adults
- Runny or itchy nose
- Watery and itchy eyes
- Headaches
- Recurrent ear infections in children
- Extremely dry or itchy skin
What are the treatment options?
Normally Hay Fever is treated by prescription or over the counter medication such as antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops and nasal sprays. If you have severe symptoms your doctor could recommend allergy shots.
There are also steps you can take to minimise Hay Fever symptoms. This can include:
- Vacuum carpets often to get rid of potential allergens like pet hairs or skin
- Stay inside during peak pollen periods
- Regularly bathe pets and clean litter boxes
- Take regular showers after being outside
- Eliminate indoor mould
- Use air-conditioning instead of fan or vent-systems to minimise exposure to airborne particles
- Avoid smoking as this can worsen symptoms
- Wear a mask, or keep your nose and mouth covered when gardening or mowing the lawn
When should you see a doctor?
It is recommended that you see a doctor if you have minor or more serious symptoms. For minor symptoms, you will only require a physical examination. For recurring symptoms that negatively affect your everyday activities, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, your doctor might recommend blood tests or allergen-specific immunotherapy.
Experiencing Hay Fever Symptoms? Contact Shire Doctors And Dentists
If you’re feeling unwell or experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, it is best to visit a doctor for treatment options. At Shire Doctors and Dentists our health professionals provide the best medical and health advice. We will tailor our treatment plans to your needs and lifestyle so that you can quickly get back to doing the things you love. Contact us on 02 9063 8650, to get in touch with a doctor today.