Seasonal allergies are not just inconvenient—they can begin to interfere with your health and your everyday life if left untreated. Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, is an irritation triggered by seasonal allergens that affect millions of Americans. Learn more about your seasonal allergies and how to treat them with the frequently asked questions below.

5 FAQ About Allergic Rhinitis

What is hay fever?

Hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is triggered by outdoor allergens like mold spores and tree, weed, and grass pollen. These substances are typically harmless, but they trigger an abnormal immune response in allergy sufferers. This response causes your immune system to attack the material, causing the symptoms commonly associated with allergies. People of any age and any background can develop hay fever without a significant underlying cause.

What are the symptoms?

The allergic response causes your immune system to overreact to the presence of allergens by producing Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies release histamine and other chemicals that cause the symptoms of your allergic reaction. Some common symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose, itching, sneezing, and post-nasal drip. If you also have eye allergies, you may experience them being itchy and watery. Sometimes allergic rhinitis is a contributing factor in sinus or ear conditions, asthma, and insomnia.

How is it diagnosed?

If you suspect you have hay fever, visit an allergist to find out which allergens, if any, are causing your irritation. The doctor will begin by completing a physical exam and asking you about your health history. Then he will perform an allergy skin test, which typically shows results within 20 minutes, and then develop a treatment plan. This will help isolate what you need to avoid and which medications will be most beneficial in preventing or treating your allergies.

How is it treated?

The first step of treating allergic rhinitis is to avoid your allergens as much as possible. Your doctor may also recommend or prescribe allergy medication or immunotherapy shots or tablets to treat your condition. Some possible medications include nasal corticosteroid sprays, antihistamines, and anti-leukotrienes. Decongestant nasal sprays or pills may also be used to relieve symptoms that come on quickly and linger.

What is immunotherapy?

Immunotherapies are treatments for specific allergens that are intended to make your body less reactive to the offending substance. After your allergist determines which materials cause your allergic reaction, he will inject small doses of the allergen under your skin at regular, increasing intervals until your body builds up a resistance. The process typically takes up to two to five years of weekly treatments to work, but the results can often be permanent.

Have your allergic rhinitis tested and treated by Masood Ahmad, M.D. at the Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center in West Chester, OH. Dr. Ahmad is a talented allergist with more than 25 years of experience treating adult and pediatric patients in the Cincinnati area. He has a widespread reputation for quality treatment for all types of allergies, asthma, and immunologic disease. Schedule an allergy test today by calling (513) 777-7097 or learn more about the practice online.