Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

Several indoor and outdoor allergens cause hay fever

1. Pollen Grains

2. Dust Mites

3. Animal Dander

4. Mold etc.

 Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent inflammatory ailment affecting the nasal passages within the Indian population. According to systematic research and meta-analysis, the prevalence of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) ranges from 20% to 30%

Hay fever and the common cold can indeed be confusing because they share some similar symptoms. However, there are key differences that can help you differentiate between the two:

Symptoms Shared by Both:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Coughing

Key Differences:

• Nasal Discharge (Snot):
  • Common Cold: The nasal discharge (snot) is more likely to be yellowish/green in color
  • Hay Fever- The nasal discharge is watery and clear
• Facial Itchiness:
  • Hay Fever: Itchy eyes or throat is a symptom typically associated with hay fever.
  • Common Cold: Facial itchiness is less common with a cold.
• Seasonal Variation:
  • If you’re allergic to a seasonal environmental trigger (such as pollen), hay fever symptoms may be restricted to particular seasons of the year.
  • If you’re allergic to dust or smoke, hay fever symptoms may persist throughout the year.
• Sore Throat:
  • A sore throat is generally a precursor to a cold.

• The immune system identifies harmless airborne substances (allergens) as dangerous.
• The immune response involves chemicals like histamine and leukotrienes
• Common Allergens includes-

1. Pollen: Common in early spring (tree pollen), late spring and summer (grass pollen), and fall (ragweed pollen).
2. Dust mites and cockroach droppings: Present year-round.
3. Pet dander: Tiny flecks of skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers.
4. Indoors and Outdoors Fungi Molds

• Genetic factors: If a close family member has hay fever or another allergy, the risk is higher.
• Other allergies or asthma: People with other allergies or asthma are more likely to have hay fever as well.
• Gender and age: Before adolescence, hay fever is more common among boys, but after adolescence, females are more affected.
• Birth date: People born during the high pollen season have a slightly higher risk of developing hay fever.
• Second-hand smoke: Exposure to cigarette smoke during the early years of life increases the risk of hay fever.

1. Local Honey: Consuming local honey can work wonders. Be sure to get honey produced by bees in your area, as it contains local pollen. Gradually, this can help build your tolerance to the pollen.

2. Probiotics: Maintaining a healthy gut can positively impact your immune system.

3. Quercetin: This natural antioxidant acts as an antihistamine. You can find it in foods like onions, apples, black tea, berries, and capers. 

4. Herbal Tea: Swap your regular tea for calming chamomile tea.