Since research shows that over 35% of the population suffers from hay fever, we can say that this condition can be considered as one the most common allergies. Hay fever, which is also referred to as allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction to air born particles, especially pollen.
During the spring and summer months, when the pollen count increases in the air, hay fever sufferers are likely to experience more severe symptoms. At the same time, during the winter months, when the pollen count in the air outside is generally low, the symptoms will subside.
What are the commonly experienced Hay Fever symptoms?
Nasal and eye irritation is definitely the most prevalent symptom of hay fever, which is experienced as soon as the sufferer is exposed to airborne allergens. The nasal and eye irritation is often accompanied by sneezing, since as soon as pollen enters the nasal passage, by sneezing the body is trying to eliminate the allergen from the area.
In cases where the tissues of the nasal passage becomes mildly or moderately inflamed, nasal congestion or a runny nose will also be experienced, which will make it difficult for the sufferer to breathe through his nose. This occurs because the body’s mucus production will inevitably increase in order to make it more difficult for the pollen and allergens to reach the lungs. This immune reaction and inflammation will make the sufferer’s nose red and itchy, which can feel extremely uncomfortable.
When the inflammation of the nasal passage becomes rather severe, the inflammation may also spread to the roof of the mouth or to the back of the throat. At the same time, the nasal congestion can also spread upwards to the face, causing mild to severe sinusitis.
Prolonged sinusitis can often lead to swelling, which in many cases can become so severe that it needs to be treated with the use of antihistamines. This can make the sufferer feel irritable, causing sleep disturbances and tiredness.
Another commonly occurring symptom of hay fever is eye irritation. When pollen or air born allergens enter the eyes, the eyes will become watery, itchy, swollen and in many cases blood shot. When eye irritation occurs and therefore the patient ends up frequently rubbing his eyes, this can make the eye lids swollen and red, causing dark circles to appear around the eyes.
What conventional treatment methods are available for Hay Fever?
There is not cure available for hay fever. However, the condition can be effectively managed, with conventional medications. There are several traditionally used medications available for the treatment of hay fever, which are available in pharmacies as well as they can be prescribed by your doctor. The most commonly used medicines used in the treatment of hay fever include the following:
- antihistamines
- oral or nasal corticosteroids
- cromolyn sodium
- leukotriene modifiers
- Decongestants
Are there any effective natural treatment methods?
Although in many cases it is unavoidable, before you start to use conventional treatment methods, it is highly recommended that you try natural hay fever remedies, since they are widely available. Unlike doctor prescribed or over the counter medications, hay fever remedies will never cause you any dangerous or uncomfortable side effects. Your body will never develop a resistance to them and they are also significantly cheaper compared to conventional medications.
The following 3 homeopathic herbs have been used by thousands of sufferers with success for the treatment of hay fever:
1 – Wyethia is a flower, which is available in powder or capsule form and is commonly used for hay fever, nasal irritation, belching, nausea and vomiting in homeopathy.
2 – Sabadilla is a herb, which is often prescribed to hay fever sufferers by homeopathic doctors, often in combination with Euphrasia for maximum benefit. The herb originates from Mexico and Central America and it is commonly used worldwide for the treatment of allergies, nasal itchiness, colds, diarrhea and pain.
3 – Euphrasia, otherwise known as Eye-bright is a herb commonly used in homeopathy for the treatment of hay fever, coughs, colds, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, sinus infection, sore throat and viruses. The herb is widely available in a capsule form in most health food stores.
However, before you decide to purchase and use any of the above mentioned medications or homeopathic herbs, it is always advisable to see a qualified general or homeopathic doctor who can not only evaluate the severity of your condition, but can also recommend the best possible treatment method suitable for your individual case.
About the author: This article was provided by the writers of HolisticHubs.com
Photo credit: Sebastian Smit