Do I need tests to confirm hay fever?
* Usually not. In nearly all cases, diagnosis is obvious based on the typical hay fever symptoms, and the fact that these symptoms get better when the trigger is avoided and/or a trial of hay fever medication works. * Whilst there are skin prick tests and blood tests available, they are not often performed, as they…
Can you avoid developing hay fever in the first place?
It’s not certain why hay fever happens. But it does seem that there’s a lower risk in people who are exposed to animals early in life, people who grow up on a farm, or those who have lots of brothers and sisters!
What is hay fever?
Hay fever (also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis) is caused by an allergy to pollen. Pollen particles are released into the air by flowers, grasses and trees, particularly in Spring and Summer- causing runny nose, sneezing and itchiness of the throat, eyes and ears. It can be severe in some cases, with bouts of re…
What causes hay fever?
Hay fever happens when a person’s own IgE antibodies attach to an allergen ( i.e. pollen, dust, animal dander or whatever the trigger is for that individual), leading to the release of inflammatory chemicals such as histamine – which in turn cause the tell-tale hay fever symptoms.
What about steroid injections for hay fever?
Steroid injections such as Kenalog used to be given for hay fever. Doctors no longer recommend this option because of the significant side effects of steroid use, and the fact that there are now many other effective, safer hay fever medications available.
How can I reduce my pollen exposure?
At peak times it can be hard to avoid pollen, but here are a few sensible tips: * If possible, try to stay indoors until after midday, particularly when the pollen count is high and on windy days * Stay indoors during and just after thunderstorms, particularly if pollen counts are high. Information about pollen …
