Summary about Disease
Pollinosis, commonly known as hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to pollen. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to pollen in the air, releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation and various symptoms. It's a non-contagious condition and typically occurs during specific pollen seasons.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy nose, eyes, throat, and ears
Watery, red eyes
Coughing
Postnasal drip
Fatigue
Headache
Dark circles under the eyes
Causes
Pollinosis is caused by an allergic reaction to pollen. The specific type of pollen varies depending on the season and geographic location. Common culprits include:
Tree pollen: Typically prevalent in the spring.
Grass pollen: Common during late spring and summer.
Weed pollen: Most problematic in late summer and fall (e.g., ragweed).
Medicine Used
Various medications can help manage pollinosis symptoms:
Antihistamines: These block the effects of histamine, reducing itching, sneezing, and runny nose (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, diphenhydramine).
Decongestants: These help relieve nasal congestion (e.g., pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline nasal spray). Use nasal sprays with caution and only for short durations due to rebound congestion.
Nasal corticosteroids: These reduce inflammation in the nasal passages (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone). They are often more effective than antihistamines for nasal congestion.
Eye drops: Antihistamine or lubricating eye drops can relieve itchy, watery eyes.
Allergy shots (immunotherapy): A series of injections containing small amounts of allergen to desensitize the immune system over time.
Leukotriene receptor antagonists: Block the action of leukotrienes, chemicals that contribute to allergy symptoms (e.g., montelukast).
Is Communicable
No, pollinosis is not communicable. It is an allergic reaction, not an infectious disease. You cannot "catch" hay fever from someone else.
Precautions
Monitor pollen counts: Stay indoors when pollen counts are high.
Keep windows and doors closed: Especially during peak pollen seasons.
Use air conditioning: With a clean filter to filter out pollen.
Wear sunglasses and a hat: To protect your eyes and hair from pollen when outdoors.
Shower and change clothes: After being outside to remove pollen.
Wash bedding frequently: To remove accumulated pollen.
Avoid mowing the lawn or raking leaves: Or wear a mask if you must.
Consider using a nasal rinse: To flush pollen from nasal passages.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of symptoms depends on the pollen season of the specific allergen you're sensitive to. Symptoms can last for several weeks or months, coinciding with the time when that particular pollen is prevalent in the air. Some people may experience symptoms throughout multiple seasons if they're allergic to several types of pollen.
How is it diagnosed?
Pollinosis is typically diagnosed based on:
Medical history: Discussion of symptoms and potential triggers.
Physical examination: Examination of the nose, throat, and ears.
Allergy testing:
Skin prick test: Small amounts of allergens are pricked onto the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
Blood test (RAST or ImmunoCAP): Measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, indicating sensitivity to particular allergens.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms closely follows the pollen season.
Spring: Tree pollen is most common, triggering symptoms from late March through May.
Summer: Grass pollen is prevalent, causing symptoms from late May through July.
Fall: Weed pollen, especially ragweed, is the primary allergen, triggering symptoms from mid-August through October.
Symptoms generally subside after the relevant pollen season ends.
Important Considerations
Cross-reactivity: People with pollen allergies may experience oral allergy syndrome (itching or tingling in the mouth) after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables due to cross-reactivity between pollen and similar proteins in these foods.
Asthma: Pollinosis can worsen asthma symptoms in individuals with both conditions.
Indoor allergens: Pollen can be carried indoors on clothing, hair, and pets, so even staying inside may not completely eliminate exposure.
Long-term management: Immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) can provide long-term relief by desensitizing the immune system to allergens.
Consult a doctor: If over-the-counter medications don't provide sufficient relief, consult a doctor or allergist for diagnosis and treatment options.