A runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing all day, and difficulty breathing? Ah, it’s that time of the year again! AKA Hay fever season, which literally runs from 1 October to 31 December every single year. For an unfortunate few, the effects of hay fever are much more severe with crazy Headaches, tiredness, and difficulty concentrating, making springtime unbearable and bitter.
Hay fever is also known as allergic rhinitis, which is an allergic reaction to airborne particles, particularly pollen.
Remember the four seasons in one day? This weather leads to pollen being fragmented and causing more allergic reactions Grass pollen in the air is a significant cause of hay fever, and pollen levels are the highest in late spring and early summer. Ryegrass pollens get trapped in tiny hairs inside our nose that usually triggers the allergic reaction and the nasal cavities become inflamed, causing your body to create more mucus, which is an attempt to flush out the irritating particles.
So, for how long does this hay fever last?
Well, it lasts as long as the pollen and other allergens are in the air. The season usually finishes by January when most people find their symptoms have disappeared. But there are also people who experience this throughout the year. Dust mites, mold, and pets are common reasons. Fever can last anywhere from a couple of hours to days.
How can you cure hay fever?
Unfortunately, you cannot cure hay fever. Allergen immunotherapy is the best option for anyone with severe symptoms or not responding to medications. A doctor administers allergen molecules through injections, tablets, or drops placed under the tongue.
For the usual suspects, there are few over-the-counter medications to help reduce the symptoms;
- Steroid nasal sprays (e.g. Rhinocort Hayfever, Nasonex, and Telnase)
- Antihistamines (e.g. Zyrtec and Claratyne)
- Eye drops (e.g. Visine-A and Naphcon-A)
- Decongestants (e.g. Otrivin and Dimetapp)
Your GP can refer you to a specialist if you want an allergy test where some people find allergy testing useful which can discover the exact trigger of their hay fever.
