Currently, there is no cure for hay fever, but some treatments can help ease its symptoms. The symptoms can be alleviated through the following methods.
1. Avoidance
2. Medication
3. Immunotherapy
1. How to Ease Allergic Rhinitis through Avoidance
The best way to avoid hay fever is by avoiding the things that trigger the allergic reaction. This may not be easy, but you can take several steps to minimize your exposure. You can:
· Avoid activities (such as mowing grass) that expose you to pollen.
· Dry your clothes and bedding inside or in a tumble dryer.
· Reduce your exposure to dust mites, dust, or animal dander.
· Wear sunglasses to reduce the amount of pollen getting into your eyes.
2. Hay Fever Medications
You should consult with a doctor to find out the best allergy medication for you. Some of these medications include:
Antihistamines
These are eye drops, nose sprays, or pills that are very effective on allergic rhinitis symptoms such as sneezing, itchy skin, or runny nose. Some options for antihistamines are fexofenadine, loratadine and cetirizine.
Antihistamines are grouped into two generations - first-generation and second-generation. First-generation antihistamines are sedating and can affect your reflexes and make you feel sleepy. Therefore, you should avoid driving or operating any machinery after taking them. On the other hand, second-generation antihistamines are non-sedating or low sedating and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Decongestants
These medications help to reduce nasal congestion. They are available as nasal sprays, pills, or liquid. Decongestants work by relieving swelling in your nose that causes it to be stuffy.
Corticosteroids
You can use them to treat symptoms such as congestion, itching, or runny nose. Corticosteroids provide fast relief and are recommended to patients who are not responsive to antihistamines. They may also be prescribed to women who are breastfeeding or pregnant.
3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
If medications cause too many side effects or do not relieve your allergic rhinitis, your doctor can recommend immunotherapy (desensitization therapy or hay fever injection). Within three to five years, you will get regular injections that contain tiny amounts of allergens that you are reacting to. Immunotherapy aims to get your body used to a particular allergen that causes your symptoms and minimizes the need for medication. Hay fever injection is especially recommended to people allergic to dust mites, cat dander, and pollen produced by weeds, grass, or trees.
Blog Source: https://regentstreetclinic.wordpress.com/2022/01/07/hay-fever-allergic-rhinitis-treatment/