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If you suffer from sneezing, runny noses, or itchy eyes, you might think you have a cold. Instead, it could be an allergy. When you come across something that you are allergic to, your body reacts with sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. People can be allergic to many different things, such as
Hay fever
Hay fever (pollen allergy) is one of the most common kinds of allergies. About 35 million Americans suffer from hay fever. Pollen is made by trees, grasses, and weeds. During the spring, summer, and fall some plants release pollen into the air you breathe. Your symptoms might be different at different times of the year. It all depends on the kinds of plants that grow where you live and what allergies you have.
Symptoms of hay fever
What kinds of tests check for allergies?
Both tests look for certain proteins (antibodies). Your body makes these proteins to match whatever it is fighting. Your antibodies tell doctors what you are allergic to.
How are allergies and hay fever treated?
Your doctor can help you decide what to do. You can:
Allergy shots contain small amounts of what you are allergic to. At first, shots may be given every week to lessen your symptoms. The shots are usually continued for 3-5 years.
Hay fever vs. colds
| Hay fever | Colds | |
|---|---|---|
| Signs | Signs can include running or stuffed nose, sneezing, wheezing, itchy and watery eyes. | Signs can include fever, aches and pains, stuffed nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. |
| Warning Time | Symptoms begin right away. | Symptoms usually take a few days to start. |
| Duration | Symptoms last as long as you are around the allergen. | Symptoms should clear up within a week. |
To Learn More:
For information on air-cleaning devices:
Environmental Protection Agency
1-800-438-4318
www.epa.gov
FDA Office of Women's Health
www.fda.gov/womens/
2007
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