For many people, spring means warmer weather, longer days, and beautiful blooms. However, for those with hay fever, it can mean weeks of sneezing, itching, and congestion. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects anywhere from 10-30% of the world’s population.

So, what causes hay fever, what are the symptoms, and how can allergy experts at The Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates help?

Causes of Hay Fever

Hay fever is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds. When these tiny particles enter the nose and throat, they can trigger a histamine response, leading to common hay fever symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Symptoms of Hay Fever

Hay fever symptoms can range from mild to severe and can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Sinus pressure
• Headaches
• Earaches
• Fatigue

Some people may also experience more severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and ear infections.

Treatment Options for Hay Fever

If you or a loved one suffer from hay fever, Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates can help provide relief. Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery Associates specialists are trained to diagnose and treat nose, throat, and ears disorders, including hay fever.

Some treatment options for hay fever include:

• Medication: Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal steroids can provide relief from hay fever symptoms.
• Allergy shots: Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, can minimize or eliminate hay fever symptoms over time.
• Nasal irrigation: Saline nasal sprays or irrigations can flush out pollen and other irritants from the nasal passages, reducing symptoms.
• Surgical procedures: In severe cases, surgical procedures, such as a septoplasty or turbinate reduction, can help improve breathing and alleviate hay fever symptoms.

Next Steps to Treat Hay Fever

If you are suffering from hay fever and conservative over-the-counter measures haven’t helped, it may be time to see an allergy specialist to discuss alternative treatment options such as allergy shots or surgical procedures to provide long-term relief.

Our team of experienced, board-certified physicians is committed to providing personalized, quality care to each patient we see. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start finding relief from your hay fever symptoms.