Q: I keep sneezing this time of year. What is the cause?
A: Allergic rhinitis – commonly known as hay fever – is a group of symptoms affecting the nose. But don’t be misled by the name – you do not have to be exposed to hay to have symptoms. Allergic rhinitis develops when the body’s immune system recognizes and overreacts to something in the environment that typically causes no problems in most people. When a sensitive person inhales an allergen, the body’s immune system may react with the following symptoms:
– Stuffy nose due to blockage or congestion.
– Runny nose or postnasal drainage.
– Itching, usually in the nose, mouth, eyes or throat.
– Red and watery eyes.
– Puffy, swollen eyelids.
– Sneezing.
– Cough.
Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis can occur in spring, summer and early fall. In the spring, the most common triggers are tree and grass pollen. In the fall, a common allergen is ragweed or other weed pollens or outdoor mold.
People with perennial allergic rhinitis experience symptoms year-round. It is generally caused by dust mites, pet hair or dander, cockroaches, or mold. Underlying or hidden food allergies rarely cause perennial nasal symptoms.
Occasional allergies aren’t just something you have to live with. Consulting an allergy specialist is the most effective way to diagnose and treat allergic rhinitis symptoms and help you find relief.
Dr. Curt Chaffin, M.D., is an allergy & asthma specialist with the Allergy & Asthma Group of Galen and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.