Hay fever is an allergic reaction of the body to various types of pollen and is one of the most common allergic reactions in our region. Grass pollen is the most frequent trigger. Birch, ash, alder, willow and other types of pollen can also cause hay fever. The different types of pollen act as allergens and trigger an immune reaction in predisposed individuals. When the allergen first comes into contact with the human body, antibodies, known as natural defence substances, are produced. From then on, the body recognises the pollen as dangerous and responds with a defence reaction. This defence reaction causes inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane (rhinitis). This leads to the typical symptoms of hay fever: itching, bouts of sneezing, a runny nose with a large amount of very watery discharge, and a blocked nose due to swelling of the nasal mucous membrane. The eyes can also be affected – redness, itching, burning, sensitivity to light and increased watering.
Many other symptoms may also occur and vary from patient to patient, for example itching in the ears and in the mouth and throat, headaches, tiredness, fatigue and irritability.
In cases of severe hay fever, the daily lives of those affected can be significantly disrupted. Various therapeutic measures can be taken to treat hay fever.
Nasal sprays, eye drops and tablets can already help to effectively control allergy symptoms. Visit our St. Johann pharmacy and we will be happy to advise you!