Hay fever is a common condition that affects millions of people every year. In fact, more than one-quarter of American adults deal with it every year. The condition causes sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and other unwanted allergy symptoms. The condition occurs when your immune system reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. Because hay fever causes so much discomfort, those with the condition often wonder how long it will last. Below, you will find helpful information about the condition and its longevity.
How Long Does Hay Fever Last?
There are two different types of hay fever: seasonal and perennial. These two types of allergies have different durations. Understanding which one you have is the key to understanding how long your symptoms will last and what steps you should take to alleviate them.
Seasonal Hay Fever
Between seasonal and perennial hay fever, seasonal is much shorter. It lasts between several weeks to several months. However, this depends on the time of year. It most commonly arises during the spring, summer, or fall. This is when plants often release pollen into the air. Seasonal hay fever is caused by pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds. The severity and length of your symptoms will depend on how long pollen levels remain high in your area.
Perennial Hay Fever
Unlike its seasonal counterpart, perennial hay fever lasts all year. Indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, or pet dander trigger this type of hay fever. Because these allergens are present throughout the year, symptoms may rise and fall in severity but never fully go away. People with perennial hay fever may experience mild symptoms most of the time. However, more intense flare-ups can occur when exposed to high amounts of allergens.
Managing Your Hay Fever
Hay fever can interfere with your daily routine and reduce your overall quality of life. Unfortunately, this is true if you have either type of hay fever. Even a few weeks of unwanted symptoms can cause issues with your sleep and daily tasks. It is important to contact an allergy specialist right away. They can diagnose the issue and get you on a customized treatment plan. Until you are able to get into an allergy specialist, consider the following tips for managing your symptoms.
Limit Your Exposure
Limiting your exposure to allergens is key. If you know what triggers your hay fever, address those types of allergens first. If you do not know your allergen triggers, try to reduce your exposure to commonly known allergens. If you have seasonal hay fever, this may mean staying indoors on high pollen days. There are several mobile apps you can use to find out what the outdoor air quality is like. You will also benefit from using air purifiers and keeping your windows closed. Purifiers can keep the indoor air clean and help reduce your symptoms.
If you have perennial hay fever, do your best to address the indoor air quality in your home. This means regularly cleaning your home your home of dust. Specifically, sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming soft surfaces. Use dust-proof covers on your pillows and mattresses. Avoid any known indoor triggers and take steps to improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Over-the-Counter Medication
If you are unable to get an appointment right away, consider over-the-counter medication to address your symptoms. There are several antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops on the market to lessen allergy symptoms. These can help control your symptoms and provide relief until you see your allergy specialist. When you see a doctor, they can prescribe medication that is right for your unique symptoms.
Allergy Specialist
If you have hay fever, contact Dr. Shukla and his team at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule an appointment!
