The Disease and its Causes
These allergic disease, frequently inherited (50% have a family history), are caused most often by airborne pollen, dust, and dander (dust from animals). Of these, pollen is the most frequent offender. Hence, the disease is usually seasonal.
This type of hay fever begins at an early age, during the season of most active spread of the allergic-producing pollen. In general, hay fever in early spring is due to tree pollens; in late spring and early summer to grain pollens; in August to October, to weed pollens. Because a patient may react to several of these pollens, his symptoms may overlap these time periods.
For non-seasonal hay fever there is rarely a family history, and it is usually associated with some infection of the upper respiratory system. Sinusitis is frequently the cause. Growths inside the nose, called nasal polyps, are often an incidental finding.
Symptoms. Hay fever is characterized by bouts of sneezing, nasal discharge of thin, watery mucus, itching and tearing of the eyes. The eyes also become sensitive to light, and become reddened. Itching of the nose, throat, and roof of mouth is also very common. Frequently there is difficulty in breathing through the nose because of the swollen mucous membrane. Fatigue and loss of appetite are often related to the general discomfort.
Complications. Secondary respiratory infection is the most common complication. Occasionally there is the development of bronchial asthma because of allergy to the same offending agent.
Prevention or Lessening of Impact
Elimination of the offending agent, if possible, is the best means of preventing hay fever. This is not always easy. If dander from dogs or cats is implicated, those animals should be removed from contact. Foam rubber bedding may be used where feathers are a cause. Air conditioning may help by filtering the offending pollens.
For the acute attack there are many medications available which are quite effective. This subject is best handled by the family physician. In those cases where treating the attack is unsuccessful, desensitization may be tried. This consists of injecting the individual with gradually increasing doses of the offending agent. In this way it is hoped he will become immune and free of reaction. This form of therapy should always be done under supervision of a physician, since severe reactions may occur.