Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergy that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by an overreaction of the immune system to pollen from grasses, trees and weeds. These pollen are viewed by the body as harmful invaders, resulting in a range of unpleasant symptoms.
Symptoms of hay fever
The symptoms of hay fever can be very unpleasant and include:
- Sneezing
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
- Itching in the throat or ears
- Fatigue
Causes of hay fever
The main cause of hay fever is contact with pollen. There are different types of pollen that appear at different times of the year:
- Spring: Pollen from trees such as birch, oak and maple.
- Summer: grass pollen such as ryegrass and rye.
- Autumn: weed pollen such as ragweed and mugwort.
Ways to relieve symptoms
There are many ways to relieve the symptoms of hay fever. Some of these include medications, lifestyle changes, and the use of supplements.
Medicines
There are several medications that can help relieve the symptoms of hay fever:
- Antihistamines: These medications block the action of histamine, a substance released during an allergic reaction.
- Nasal and eye drops: They can help relieve symptoms directly at the source.
- Corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation and can help with more severe symptoms.
Lifestyle changes
Certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of hay fever:
- Keep indoor spaces pollen-free: Keep doors and windows closed, especially on days with high pollen levels.
- Shower and wash your hair: After spending time outdoors, you should shower and wash your hair to remove pollen.
- Change clothes: Change your clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen.
- HEPA filters: Use HEPA filters in your home to reduce the amount of pollen in the air.
Supplementation to relieve symptoms
In addition to medications and lifestyle changes, there are also various dietary supplements that can help relieve the symptoms of hay fever.
vitamin C
- Antioxidant effect: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Histamine reduction: It also helps lower histamine levels in the body, which can relieve the symptoms of hay fever.
Quercetin
- Natural antihistamine: Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It acts as a natural antihistamine and can help reduce allergic reactions.
- Anti-inflammatory: It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve symptoms.
Omega-3 fatty acids
- Anti-inflammatory effect: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and some vegetable oils, can reduce inflammation in the body.
- Immune system support: They also support the immune system and can help alleviate allergic reactions.
Probiotics
- Intestinal health: Probiotics promote healthy intestinal flora, which is important for a strong immune system.
- Reduce allergy symptoms: Studies have shown that certain probiotics can help relieve the symptoms of hay fever.
Bromelain
- Enzyme from pineapple: Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple that has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Reduce swelling: It can help reduce swelling and inflammation caused by hay fever.
Local honey
- Allergy exposure: Local honey contains small amounts of pollen from your region. Consuming it can help slowly accustom your immune system to these pollens.
- Alleviate symptoms: Regular consumption of local honey can help reduce the severity of symptoms.