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Hay Fever Remedies

Despite its name, hay fever does not have anything to do with hay or fever. It's an allergic reaction to specific inhaled triggers. Also known as allergic rhinitis, symptoms of hay fever can be sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, an itchy throat and nose, and coughing. The most common triggers include pet dander, pollens, molds and dust mites. Hay fever can be treated by minimal contact with triggers, medications and immunotherapy.

  1. Prevention

    • Ideally, avoiding allergens would be the best remedy for hay fever. But simple measures allow people to avoid exposure. In your home, use high-efficiency particulate air filters on vacuums, air purifiers and air conditioners. They remove micro-sized particles and help keep your home free of allergens. To protect yourself from dust mites, put your mattress and pillows in special protective bedding. Also, use the Internet sites such as the National Weather Service to check pollen and mold forecasts. Limit time outdoors when the count gets high. Keep windows closed indoors. Also, use a protective mask for house cleaning or if you must go outside.

    Medications

    • Medications can relieve your symptoms. Antihistamines and decongestants have become the most popular choices. Antihistamines fight histamine, a chemical that creates inflammation during an allergic reaction. They come in an oral form, nasal spray or eye drops. Decongestants reduce congestion and are used in nasal sprays. Both medications can be found over the counter or by prescription. For more chronic hay fever reactions, nasal corticosteroids might be prescribed. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications. When used daily, inflammation in the nose can be dramatically decreased and consequently reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Leukotriene blockers also might help. Leukotrienes create inflammation. Leukotriene blockers such as Singulair can reduce the frequency of hay fever reactions.

    Immunotherapy

    • Immunotherapy will be recommended for those who suffer from hay fever several months of the year and get little reprieve from medications. An allergist will administer shots containing small doses of specific allergens. Over time, the dose will increase as your body builds immunity. But weekly visits to the allergist can take years before any relief will be felt. Consult with a doctor for treatment.

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