Its name may be misleading, but its effects are undeniable.
Pollen and mold are among the triggers for hay fever, technically known as allergic rhinitis. By the way, you don’t need to be exposed to hay to experience hay fever. Common symptoms of hay fever — which can occur seasonally or year-round — mimic those of the common cold, such as congestion, coughing and sneezing.
In 2021, about 81 million Americans were diagnosed with seasonal hay fever, equating to 26% of adults and 19% of kids, according to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America.
Here, we define hay fever, review its causes, identify its symptoms and provide tips for getting relief from it.
What is hay fever?
The Cleveland Clinic explains that hay fever is an allergic reaction to small airborne particles known as allergens.
“When you breathe in allergens through your nose or mouth, your body reacts by releasing a natural chemical called histamine,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “Despite being called hay fever, hay doesn’t cause hay fever and most people don’t get a fever.”
Hay fever isn’t contagious, the Cleveland Clinic notes.
What causes hay fever?
According to the Mayo Clinic, the causes of hay fever include:
- Tree pollen, which is common in the spring.
- Grass pollen, which is common in late spring and summer.
- Ragweed pollen, which is common in fall.
- Dust mites and cockroach droppings, which are present year-round.
- Pet dander, which can cause problems year-round.
- Spores from indoor and outdoor fungi and molds. This can be a seasonal or year-round phenomenon.
Irritants like cigarette smoke, diesel exhaust and perfume can also trigger hay fever, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
The Cleveland Clinic says you’re more prone to allergies like hay fever if a parent or close relative has them.
“Allergens are harmless to most people,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “But if you have hay fever, your immune system thinks the allergen is intruding. Your immune system tries to protect your body by releasing natural chemicals into your bloodstream. The main chemical is called histamine. It causes mucous membranes in your nose, eyes and throat to become inflamed and itchy as they work to eject the allergen from your body.”
Unfortunately, some people may be susceptible to both seasonal and year-round hay fever.
What are the symptoms of hay fever?
Many of the symptoms associated with hay fever are similar to those associated with the common cold. Hay fever symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Fatigue, often due to poor sleep
- Headache
- Itchy eyes, mouth or skin
- Postnasal drip (mucus that flows down the back of the throat).
- Puffy skin under the eyes
- Runny nose
- Sinus pressure
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
Who do you get relief from hay fever?
Medication is one of the most popular ways to get relief from hay fever. These include decongestants, antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, allergy shots and pills that block inflammation-causing leukotriene. Eye drops also might help.
Keep in mind that some allergy-fighting medications may be available over the counter, while others might require a prescription. Also, it’s worth noting that some of these medications might lead to various side effects.
If you’re not inclined to take medication to combat hay fever, steering clear of hay fever triggers might be your best option. Here are some hay fever avoidance tips from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the Cleveland Clinic and the Mayo Clinic:
- Stay indoors when allergen levels are high.
- Make sure home and car windows are always shut when pollen is prevalent.
- Put on glasses or sunglasses to keep outdoor pollen from floating into your eyes.
- Wash your hands after interacting with furry pets like dogs and cats.
- Put covers on pillows, mattresses and box springs to keep away dust mites.
- Use filters to pull allergens from indoor air.
- Run a dehumidifier to cut down on the presence of mold.
- Don’t use window fans that bring allergens indoors.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can worsen symptoms.
Unfortunately, the Mayo Clinic says, there’s no way to prevent hay fever.
“Most people find relief from hay fever within a few days with medication, but they must take it continuously until the allergen is out of the air,” the Cleveland Clinic says. “Some people continue to have symptoms of hay fever for several weeks or months, especially if they aren’t taking or can’t take medication to help relieve symptoms.”
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