Seasonal allergy, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, affects many people”especially during the spring months. Common symptoms include persistent nasal discharge, sneezing, and watery eyes. Outdoor activities can become challenging due to heightened pollen levels, which are primarily spread by wind. Freshly cut grass and the pollen it releases can also trigger allergies. While allergic rhinitis can often be managed with medications and immunotherapy, individuals with this condition have a higher risk of developing sinusitis or asthma. Consulting a specialist in immunology may be helpful if symptoms persist or worsen.
What is Seasonal Allergy?
Allergic rhinitis is classified as either seasonal (hay fever) or perennial (year-round) rhinitis. The type that occurs in spring is known as seasonal allergic rhinitis. An allergy is an exaggerated immune system response to typically harmless substances called allergens.
Seasonal allergies develop when airborne allergens”mainly pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers”are inhaled through the nose or mouth. Once inside the body, these allergens trigger the immune system's mast cells to release histamine. This histamine release causes typical symptoms like a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, and nasal itching. People may also experience sinusitis, fatigue, or dark circles under the eyes. In more severe cases, seasonal allergies can trigger asthma attacks in sensitive individuals.
What are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergy?
The symptoms might be confused with common cold. In seasonal allergy, when the allergen is removed, the symptoms stop and the person is relieved, but they continue in the common cold.
The following symptoms are usually seen:
- Headache caused by the filling of the sinuses
- Nasal congestion and postnasal discharge experienced due to increased mucus (accumulation of mucus in the throat, formation of sputum)
- Sore throat
- Nasal discharge
- A general feeling of discomfort
- Itchy nose, redness of the nose due to scratching or wiping
- A general feeling of tiredness, a desire to sleep
Allergic reactions affecting the upper respiratory tract can produce symptoms like these at any age, though they are especially common during the transition from childhood to adolescence.
Is Seasonal Allergy Contagious?
Allergies are not a disease caused by viruses or bacteria. It is the body's reaction to certain substances. Bacterial-caused conditions such as the common cold show similar symptoms and are contagious, but seasonal allergies are not contagious.
When Does Seasonal Allergy Occur?
Pollen density varies greatly depending on the natural environment. The types and number of trees and plants in an area, as well as local weather conditions, influence the likelihood of triggering seasonal allergies. Individuals with seasonal allergies should take precautions, such as going outdoors when pollen counts are lower”typically on less windy days or at specific times of day.
The season for pollen allergies depends on regional ecosystems and climate. Pollen levels can vary by month and location, even within the same country. Seasonal allergies are most commonly experienced in April, May, June, and July when trees and flowers release the most pollen.
How is the Seasonal Allergy Diagnosed?
If you experience allergy symptoms in the spring, it's important to consult an allergy and immunology specialist. Your doctor will take a detailed history, asking about when and where your symptoms”such as nasal discharge”occur. They may examine your nose for swelling or excess mucus. To confirm the diagnosis, further tests can be done, such as allergy testing or taking a nasal swab sample.
A common method is the skin allergy test, which is painless and does not require a blood sample. Typically, a small area on your forearm is used. The skin is lightly scratched and small amounts of several allergens (usually 10-20) are applied. After about 30 minutes, areas that develop a skin reaction (like redness or swelling) indicate an allergy to that particular substance.
Does Seasonal Allergy Occur in Babies?
Babies can experience seasonal allergies much like adults, although they are uncommon in children under the age of 2 or 3. If a parent has allergic rhinitis, the baby's risk is higher. Parents should watch for symptoms such as sneezing, trouble breathing, nasal discharge, and itchy eyes”especially after outdoor exposure. If these signs appear, a visit to a pediatric allergy specialist is recommended.
Antihistamines and corticosteroid sprays are typically not prescribed for infants. The best approach is to minimize the baby's exposure to allergens by keeping them away from high-pollen areas. During spring and summer, consider keeping windows closed and frequently washing sheets to avoid pollen accumulation.
How Does Seasonal Allergy Heal?
There are several effective treatment options for seasonal allergies. Lifestyle changes”such as avoiding allergens, eating a nutritious diet, staying well-hydrated, and taking vitamin supplements”can help support your immune system and reduce symptoms.
Medications are often recommended as well. Antihistamines help reduce allergic reactions by decreasing histamine production. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can relieve symptoms like nasal discharge and itching. Decongestants may also be prescribed to ease nasal congestion, and some allergy medications combine antihistamines with decongestants for added relief.
Can Seasonal Allergies Be Solved With Surgery?
Nose surgery is not a permanent solution for seasonal allergies, but it can help relieve symptoms for some people. If a person with nasal obstruction from enlarged tissues (such as nasal turbinates) develops seasonal allergies, concha (turbinate) surgery may be recommended to make breathing easier and reduce allergic reactions by decreasing the surface area exposed to allergens. This can lead to reduced medication needs and improved quality of life.
Additionally, structural issues like a deviated septum or other shape problems may worsen allergy symptoms, so rhinoplasty (corrective nasal surgery) might also be helpful. However, it is important to note that surgery cannot completely cure seasonal allergies.
Is There a Vaccine Treatment for Seasonal Allergies?
Allergy vaccines, also known as immunotherapy, are considered when seasonal allergies can't be controlled with medications alone. This treatment involves gradually exposing the body to increasing doses of the allergen to help build tolerance. Immunotherapy is a long-term process and may cause mild side effects at first. If you have a severe reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
Allergy vaccines can be both therapeutic and preventive. For best results, immunotherapy should be started early in the course of allergic rhinitis. However, not all patients are suitable candidates. Immunotherapy is not recommended for individuals with severe asthma, children under 5 years old, or those with cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Does Seasonal Allergy Affect the Lungs?
Obstructive pulmonary diseases such as asthma, COPD, and bronchiectasis are characterized by blocked airways and increased mucus production, similar to what can be seen with seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies may contribute to lung problems mainly by triggering or worsening asthma symptoms.
Bronchiectasis involves permanent enlargement and damage to the airways (bronchi) in the lungs. It can develop alongside allergic asthma and, if severe, may lead to lung tissue damage. However, seasonal allergies alone rarely cause significant or permanent lung damage on their own.
Does Seasonal Allergy Cause Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe. When exposed to allergens like dust, smoke, or pollen, the body reacts by tightening airway muscles, increasing mucus production, and further restricting airflow. This leads to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and episodes of difficulty breathing.
Allergies are the leading cause of asthma, and poorly managed seasonal allergies are a major risk factor for developing asthma. Seasonal allergies can sometimes trigger asthma attacks. However, it's important to distinguish between the two: allergies often cause symptoms like itching, while asthma typically presents as morning shortness of breath or waking up with a cough.
If you think you may have seasonal allergies or asthma, don't delay seeking professional evaluation. The Immunology and Allergy Diseases Department at Liv Hospital can provide thorough assessment and treatment options.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
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