Hay fever describes allergies that occur in the spring, summer, or fall. Some people have hay fever all three of these seasons while others get it for only one or two. Hay fever is caused by allergens, foreign substances that cause your body to have an allergic reaction. The allergens associated with hay fever, pollen and molds, are present in the air and are spread by wind. Types of pollen vary from region to region; mold is found in damp places such as pillows and mattresses.Hay fever affects the eyes, nose, sinuses, and occasionally the lungs. If allergens come into contact with these particular tissues in an allergic person, cells release histamine. This chemical makes the tissues itch, swell, and produce excess mucus and tears.
Your doctor will need to know your medical history to diagnose you with hay fever allergies. If your symptoms are seasonal, then your doctor may suspect hay fever. Skin tests are available to diagnose hay fever as well, but these tests are expensive and your physician may suggest you try to treat your symptoms with hay fever medication first. If those do not control your symptoms, a skin test may be recommended.
