An allergen is an otherwise harmless substance that causes an allergic reaction. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is an allergic response to specific allergens. Pollen is the most common allergen in seasonal allergic rhinitis. These are allergy symptoms that occur with the change of seasons.
Nearly 8 percent of adults in the United States experience allergic rhinitis of some kind, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Between 10 and 30 percent of the worldwide population may also have allergic rhinitis.
Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis include:
- sneezing
- a runny nose
- a stuffy nose
- an itchy nose
- coughing
- a sore or scratchy throat
- itchy eyes
- watery eyes
- dark circles under the eyes
- frequent headaches
- eczema-type symptoms, such as having extremely dry, itchy skin that can blister and weep
- hives
- excessive fatigue
Alternative and complementary medicine
Due to concerns over possible side effects, more people with allergies are looking at ways to address hay fever symptoms “naturally.” However, it is important to remember that any medication can have side effects, even if it’s considered natural. Aside from home remedies, options can also include alternative and complimentary medicine. The downside to these treatments can be that there’s little supporting evidence to prove that they’re safe or effective. The correct dosing may also be difficult to determine or achieve.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), some of the treatments below may be helpful in managing seasonal allergies, but more research is still needed. Talk to your doctor before trying any of the following.
- acupuncture
- nasal saline irrigation
- butterbur supplements
- honey (choose raw, organic varieties)
- probiotics
Although these alternative treatments are derived from plants and other natural substances, they can possibly interact with medications, as well as cause reactions. Try these with caution, and ask your doctor before use.
Complications of allergic rhinitis
Unfortunately, allergic rhinitis itself can’t be prevented. Treatment and management are keys to achieving a good quality of life with allergies. Some complications that can arise from hay fever include:
- inability to sleep from symptoms keeping you up at night
- development or worsening of asthma symptoms
- frequent ear infections
- sinusitis or frequent sinus infections
- absences from school or work because of reduced productivity
- frequent headaches
Complications can also arise from antihistamine side effects. Most commonly, drowsiness can occur. Other side effects include headache, anxiety, and insomnia. In rare cases, antihistamines can cause gastrointestinal, urinary, and circulatory effects.
Children can develop allergic rhinitis too, and it typically appears before the age of 10. If you notice that your child develops cold-like symptoms at the same time each year, they probably have seasonal allergic rhinitis.
The symptoms in children are similar to those in adults. Children usually develop watery, bloodshot eyes, which is called allergic conjunctivitis. If you notice wheezing or shortness of breath in addition to other symptoms, your child may have also developed asthma.
If you believe your child has allergies, see your doctor. It’s important to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.
If your child does have significant seasonal allergies, limit your child’s exposure to allergens by keeping them inside when pollen counts are high. Washing their clothes and sheets frequently during allergy season and vacuuming regularly may also be useful. Many different treatments are available to help your child’s allergies. However, some medications can cause side effects, even in small doses. Always talk to your doctor before treating your child with any over-the-counter allergy medication.
https://www.healthline.com/health/allergic-rhinitis#in-children
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