hay fever
Hay fever is an allergic condition that can easily occur in spring, summer, and autumn. Particularly now, during the transition between spring and summer, hay fever is rampant. New immigrants to the U.S. are most susceptible to hay fever 2-3 years after arrival, so extra caution is necessary.
Hay fever is a seasonal allergic reaction primarily caused by pollen from trees and flowers. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itching in the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, tearing, or headaches. Symptoms are more pronounced upon waking in the morning, and some patients may experience them several times a day.
Spring is the first peak season for pollen allergies in a year, primarily concentrated from late March to May. Clinical observations indicate that patients experiencing the aforementioned symptoms during mid-March to April are mostly suffering from cypress pollen allergy. Spring pollen allergies last shorter and exhibit milder symptoms compared to those in summer and autumn, with asthma symptoms rarely occurring.
On sunny days with higher temperatures, drier air, and stronger winds, pollen concentrations tend to be higher, and symptoms of hay fever become more pronounced. Conversely, during rainy weather, the washing effect of rain reduces airborne pollen levels, leading to fewer cases of pollen allergies among sufferers.
Many people never had allergies before coming to the United States, but after living there for a while, they suddenly developed pollen allergies. The symptoms of hay fever resemble those of a cold, often leading to misdiagnosis. If you experience the following symptoms, you are likely suffering from hay fever:
Frequent sneezing.
2. Crying incessantly.
3. Feeling chills throughout the body but without a fever.
4. The ear and the venous sinus are repeatedly infected.
5. Long-term loss of olfactory or gustatory function.
6. A hoarse voice.
7. Persistent cough.
Some patients with allergic rhinitis may also suffer from asthma.
Treating hay fever
In Western medicine, there is no complete cure for hay fever, but symptoms can be alleviated with medications or other treatments. When purchasing antihistamines, it is essential to follow medical advice strictly and avoid indiscriminate use. Minimize the use of nasal sprays or corticosteroid injections, as these treatments only provide temporary relief from allergic symptoms and carry significant side effects.
Caring for Children with Hay Fever
Children's respiratory systems are more fragile and their immune systems are not as strong as those of adults, making them particularly susceptible to allergies. Therefore, careful parental protection and preparation can significantly reduce their chances of infection and alleviate symptoms, allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably even during the spring season.
