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Hay fever is a common
nasal allergy to airborne substances such as pollens or molds, and
the term has also been used for other allergies such as to animal
dander. It is very common with an estimated 35 million Americans with
pollen allergies alone. Hay fever is also known as "allergic
rhinitis". Hay fever affects one in every five Americans. Over
one billion dollars are spent each year in this country to treat this
disorder. Millions of school and work days each year are lost suffering
from hay fever symptoms.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, frequently include
nasal congestion, a clear runny nose, sneezing, nose and eye itching,
and tearing eyes. Post nasal dripping of clear mucus frequently causes
a cough. Loss of smell is common and loss of taste occurs occasionally.
Nose bleeding may occur if the condition is severe. Eye itching, redness,
and tearing frequently accompany the nasal symptoms. The eye symptoms
are referred to as "allergic conjunctivitis" (inflammation
of the whites of the eyes). These allergic symptoms often interfere
with one's quality of life and total health. Allergic rhinitis can
lead to other diseases such as sinusitis and asthma. Many allergic
people have difficulty with social and physical activities. Concentration
is also difficult while experiencing allergic rhinitis.
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Preventive Strategies:
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Avoid pollen |
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Stay indoors |
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Face masks when outdoors |
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