Hayfever is defined as an inflammation of the lining of the nose and throat as a result of an allergy to pollen. The condition itself does not of course cause a fever and frequently has nothing to do with hay. The condition ordinarily manifests itself in the late teenage years but it can also start earlier than this.
The symptoms of hay fever include itching and runny eyes along with a sore nose which are due to the allergy. Pay particular attention to when you start to experience symptoms considering this may give you some indication as to the specific allergy causing the problem. If you start to develop symptoms in the early part of the year (March or April) your undoubtedly are reacting to pollen produced by the local trees. Symptoms of grass pollen allergy tend to manifest themselves in the mid part of the year (May to July) and common weed pollen along with mould spores tend to cause hay fever sufferers problems in the latter part of the year (July and August).
There is been a significant increase in the number of people suffering from this allergy within the last 25 years but interestingly, experts have not reached a conclusion as to why this is so. Some specialists have hypothesized that it may be the result of the effects of global warming upon the life cycle of our trees and grasses.
Hayfever treatments very much depend on the severity of the symptoms being experienced. Relatively mild symptoms can be managed by simply staying indoors when the pollen levels are very high ensuring you keep your windows and doors closed. Very good quality shielding sunglasses can be worn should you have to go out and even some cars come pre-fitted with pollen filters. Nasal sprays and eye drops can help alleviate runny eyes and noses however the majority of people tend to now take antihistamine tablets available from your pharmacy counter.
Recent research has indicated that the herbal remedy butter bur is shown to be an effective alternative to antihistamine for hay fever sufferers. This is particularly relevant for people who do not wish to experience the drowsiness which antihistamines can cause whilst obtaining a similar benefit. In the most severe hay fever cases oral steroids can be prescribed by your doctor or medical physician. The continued use of oral steroids does however carry risks and greatly increases your risk of contracting osteoporosis later in life.
There are many remedies and treatments available for hay fever and no one needs to suffer therefore, if you are experiencing hay fever symptoms, consult with your doctor or medical practitioner who will be able to talk through the options with you and if required prescribe the necessary medication.
