From the Guidelines
A common recurring spring allergy is seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, which is caused by an IgE-mediated inflammatory response to seasonal aeroallergens. This condition typically flares up in spring when trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen into the air, as described in the clinical practice guideline: allergic rhinitis executive summary 1. Symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and throat irritation.
Classification and Treatment
The classification of allergic rhinitis (AR) can be divided into seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR), intermittent allergic rhinitis, and persistent allergic rhinitis, as outlined in the study by 1. For treatment, over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), or fexofenadine (Allegra) at standard adult doses can provide relief, as suggested by 1. Nasal corticosteroids such as fluticasone (Flonase) or triamcinolone (Nasacort) are also effective, particularly for more severe allergic rhinitis, as noted in the study by 1.
Implementation and Prevention
For immediate implementation, start medications before pollen season begins and continue throughout the season. Additionally, minimize outdoor exposure during peak pollen times (usually mornings), keep windows closed, shower after being outdoors, and use air purifiers with HEPA filters. These measures can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with seasonal allergic rhinitis, as implied by the guidelines 1.
Key Points
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis is a common recurring spring allergy
- Symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and throat irritation
- Treatment options include over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids
- Prevention measures include minimizing outdoor exposure and using air purifiers with HEPA filters
- Classification of allergic rhinitis can help guide treatment selection, as outlined in the study by 1
From the FDA Drug Label
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is triggered by outdoor allergens such as pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds. The common recurring spring allergy is seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, which is triggered by outdoor allergens such as:
- Pollens from trees
- Pollens from grasses
- Pollens from weeds 2
From the Research
Common Recurring Spring Allergies
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) is a common recurring spring allergy, often triggered by grass and tree pollens 3
- Allergy to moulds and weeds is less common, but can also contribute to spring allergies 3
- Identifying the months of the year when an individual is symptomatic can help define the culprit allergen 3
Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, postnasal drainage, sneezing, and itching of the eyes, nose, and throat 4
- Diagnosis is clinical and based on history, physical examination, and at least one symptom of nasal congestion, runny or itchy nose, or sneezing 5
- Skin prick tests and specific IgE tests can be used to differentiate SAR from non-allergic rhinitis and define the culprit allergen(s) 3, 5
Treatment and Management
- Allergen avoidance is the first step in the management of any allergic rhinitis 3, 5
- Intranasal corticosteroids are first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis, with second-line therapies including antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists 5
- Oral non-sedating antihistamines are recommended as first-line treatment for mild SAR, with higher doses necessary in moderate to severe SAR 3