Often confused with common cold, hay fever affects tens of millions of people every year with symptoms like continuous sneezing, runny nose, sinus pressures, itchy eyes, lethargy, and headaches. However, while the common cold is caused by viral infection, hay fever occurs as the body responds to certain airborne allergic stimulants, like pollen. Other allergens from plants, and fungi, have been also known to cause this kind of ailment.
Of course it is easy to make a general comment like, one should avoid all things that cause a hay feverish allergic response, but it is not always possible. There is no way for a person to check their natural surroundings, in order to ensure that never come in contact with allergens. However, in case, you are already affected by hay fever, there are several ways to cope with it.
When a person is exposed to certain allergens, the body releases an organic nitrogen compound that is known as histamine. This is what triggers the symptoms of hay fever. So, the best way to receive some sort of respite from hay fever is to consume anti-histamines that suppress the symptoms of this allergic reaction. There is a large variety of anti-histamines that are available throughout the country, both in the form of over-the-counter drugs, as well as prescription medications. You can get such anti-histamines in the forms of pills, inhalers, and even eye-drops. By carrying such medicines with you, at all times, you can be sure to confront hay fever symptoms, as and when they begin to distress you. In case of nasal distresses, you may also find intranasal corticosteroids very effective. Of course, it is highly recommended that you consult your doctor, before using any of the stronger medications. Avoiding to do the same may end up creating bigger problems for you. In addition to such allopathic medicinal options, you can also get homeopathic solutions for yourself, and your family.
Owing to the nation’s age long tryst with hay fever, a number of effective home remedies have been invented, and passed on, along the years. For instance, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can relieve a sore throat, using lip balm around nostrils can decrease the amount of itching around that area, and drinking natural potions of ginger, garlic, and herb butterbur, can comfort your symptoms. In addition, recent researches have also shown that the use of cayenne pepper and green peppers can also reduce the symptoms of hay fever. However, such home remedies are most effectual, in treating mild cases. You should ideally visit your doctor, if the symptoms persist or flare up.
Other than medications and home remedies, getting allergy shots have also proven to be very successful.
These are some of the few practical medical ways of coping with hay fever. However, maintaining a good personal hygiene, keeping your house clean and staying indoors may also go a long way in preventing this ailment.
If you follow the above tips and suggestions carefully, then you can hope to have a summer free from hay fever.
