Hay Fever Management
Allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever) affects around 18% of people (children and adults) in Australia and New Zealand. Hay Fever is triggered by a number of allergens such as pollen, dust, mould and animal hair. Some common symptoms include:
- Runny & Itchy nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
Obstructive signs or symptoms
- Congested nose
- Snoring
Dr Kristen Tee, a prominent member of the Pro Health Care team of General Practitioners, reports: ‘Symptoms of Hay Fever will tend to persist without appropriate treatment and if left uncontrolled can become problematic, particularly if there is a history of asthma or in young children’. Some complications that are commonly seen with prolonged allergic rhinitis include:
- Sleep disturbance
- Daytime tiredness
- Headaches
- Poor concentration
- Recurrent ear infections in children
- Recurrent sinus infections in adults
- Asthma which is more difficult to control
Allergy testing
Dr Tee explains, ‘persistent rhinitis that is impacting on your day to day function should be discussed and investigated with your doctor. Part of this process might include a referral to an allergy specialist to investigate the causative factor(s). Once determined, we can start to piece together a management plan that may include minimising exposure to the known allergen, as well as considering a range of medications to manage the symptoms of hay fever such as Anti-Histamines, Nasal Sprays and Eye Drops’.
‘For those aged older than 5, one treatment option is ‘desensitisation’ which involves the administration of regular, gradually increasing amounts of allergen extracts, by injections or by sublingual tablets, sprays or drops (under the tongue). This can be an effective, long term treatment that should be considered and discussed with your doctor’.
If you or someone you know suffers from persistent hay-fever symptoms, call one of our clinics to arrange an appointment with a doctor and discuss treatment options, or book online today.