Hay fever or rhinitis is an allergic reaction to airborne substances known as allergens.  Allergens are not harmful in themselves and most people have no reaction to them at all. The most common allergens are plant pollens and dust mites. Moulds and animal fur can also cause reactions.
 
The unfortunate hay fever sufferer develops a sensitivity to the allergen, and the immune system, not able to tell that the substance is harmless, releases chemicals called histamines to fight the presence of the alien substance.  The result is irritation and inflammation in the membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth and air passages that come into contact with the allergen.  Sneezing and watery discharges from the nose and eyes are just some of the body's methods for flushing away the allergen particles.

Hay fever usually occurs seasonally (every Spring for example), and includes symptoms such as:

·         Sneezing
·         Itchy, painful nose, throat
·         Nasal and sinus discharge
·         Blocked ears
·         Coughing
·         Watery, itchy eyes
·         Head and nasal congestion
·         Fatigue and trouble sleeping
 
If the hay fever persists throughout the year than the culprit is probably dust and the attendant dust mites.

Many allergies have a genetic component, and it is quite common for people with hay fever to have a family history of the problem.  Another factor implicated in hay fever is not being breast fed as a baby as breast milk passes on the mother’s immunity to the baby

Lifestyle factors of Hay Fever

The best way to combat the allergens that are assaulting you is to avoid them.  This is easier said than done since many people do not know which substances affect them while others are allergic to so many different substances that it is impossible to avoid them all.  It is possible to be tested to find out what the offending substances are. Skin tests involve dropping substances on to the skin and looking for swelling and an allergic reaction.

Keeping windows closed and the air conditioning turned on can assist in clearing the air of particles and so reducing the reaction. Also, regularly clean the filters to remove any trapped allergic particles.

Avoid mowing your lawn or raking leaves since these activities stir up pollens. If you must work in the garden, wear a filtered mask and protective glasses. Wash your face, hands, and hair and rinse your eyes when coming in from outdoors to avoid leaving traces of pollen on your pillow.

If dust mites are a problem, wash all bedding, get new pillows and consider getting rid of old carpets.  Vacuuming does not remove dust mites.
Mucous producing foods can aggravate hay fever symptoms.  Avoid dairy products when hay fever symptoms are severe.

Avoid the use of air fresheners, spray deodorants and perfumes as these may inflame the condition.
 
Natural therapies for Hay Fever

Vitamin C and bioflavonoids help to improve the part of the immune system concerned with allergies and histamine release; 1000mg daily is recommended during hay fever season
 
Vitamin A and carotenoids are good for the maintenance of healthy mucous membranes of the nose, throat and eyes. Good sources of carotenoids include apricots, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, kale, butternut squash, and collard greens.

Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.  They can be obtained from fish oil or flax seed capsules

Horseradish, Garlic and Fenugreek help to dry up discharge and relieve hay fever symptoms Taking a horseradish supplement during the hay fever season, helps to alleviate hay fever or reduce its severity of the symptoms.

Gargling with salt water can relieve itchy throat symptoms and eyedrops can give relief to itchy eyes.

Two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and two of honey in a glass of water, three times a day can also be an effective treatment for hay fever symptoms.  The vinegar and honey help digestion and reduce the formation of mucous.