Hay Fever Specialist
-
- Tweet
Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas
Allergy and Asthma Specialists located in Austin, TX & Cedar Park, TX
Medical experts estimate that about 8% of adults aged 18 and over struggle with hay fever. Because the team at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas understands just how debilitating hay fever symptoms can become, they offer several of the most advanced treatment solutions. Get relief from hay fever right away by calling the Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Killeen, or Round Rock, Texas, clinic locations to schedule an evaluation. You can also request an appointment online today.
Hay Fever Q & A
What causes hay fever?
Hay fever, medically known as allergic rhinitis, leads to chronic cold-like symptoms. But rather than being caused by a virus, hay fever stems from an allergic response. With hay fever, your immune system jumps into overdrive anytime you’re exposed to an airborne substance, even though it really isn’t harmful.
Since your immune system starts developing antibodies to protect you from this foreign invader, each time you’re exposed to the allergen, the antibodies release chemicals like histamine. This is one of the chemicals that causes all of the uncomfortable side effects.
Even though it isn’t always clear why you have hay fever, some of the common risk factors include:
- A family history of hay fever
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Allergies or asthma
- Early childhood exposure to secondhand smoke
Your chances of developing hay fever also increase if you regularly work or live in an environment where you’re exposed to allergens, such as animal dander.
Are there symptoms of hay fever?
Yes, and with the exception of a fever and discolored nasal discharge, hay fever symptoms often mimic the common cold. Hay fever symptoms can vary from minor to severe and can include:
- A runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Lingering fatigue
- Sneezing or coughing
It’s common for these symptoms to worsen during specific times of the year. For example, cedar fever season generally peaks during winter months, while ragweed season is usually worse in late spring or early summer. If trees or grass pollen triggers your hay fever flare-ups, spring and summer months can become dreadful.
How is hay fever treated?
To help design an effective hay fever treatment plan, your dedicated practitioner at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas may start with a skin prick or blood allergy test to determine what’s triggering your hay fever. Your hay fever treatment plan may include:
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Decongestant medications
- Oral corticosteroids
- Sublingual (under-the-tongue) allergy tablets
- Antihistamine medications, nasal sprays, or eye drops
The team also counsels you on ways to minimize your exposure to the known allergen as much as possible to decrease the severity of hay fever attacks.
Book your hay fever evaluation at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas today. Call your most convenient office, or click on the online booking feature.
