Allergic Rhinitis (Hey Fever)

llergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an inflammatory condition of the nose and throat that is caused by an allergic reaction to airborne particles such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mold.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include:

Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy nose, eyes, ears, and throat
Watery eyes
Postnasal drip (mucus draining from the back of the nose down the throat)
Cough

Red flags that may indicate a more serious condition include:

Facial pain or pressure
Headache
Tooth pain
Foul-smelling or discolored nasal discharge
Fever

Treatment for allergic rhinitis typically involves avoiding the allergen triggers, medications, and/or immunotherapy. Self-care measures may also help alleviate symptoms, including:

Avoiding allergen triggers such as pollen, dust, and animal dander
Using air filters or purifiers
Washing bed sheets and clothes in hot water to reduce dust mites and other allergens
Using saline nasal sprays or rinses to flush out allergens and mucus from the nasal passages
Using over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants to alleviate symptoms
Using prescription nasal corticosteroids or leukotriene receptor antagonists to reduce inflammation