Hay Fever Symptoms & Treatment

The medical terminology for hay fever is "allergic rhinitis" which refers to the primary symptoms of sinus pressure, stuffy nose, and itchy watery eyes. This condition is caused by an allergic reaction due to the pollen released by certain plants and trees typically during the spring, summer, and fall months which is why it is also commonly referred to as "seasonal allergies".

These allergens become airborne and enter the airways through the nose and mouth causing the immune system to react to this "foreign" matter by releasing histamines which cause the symptoms of hay fever. In some individuals however, hay fever can be experienced year-round due to mold, pet dander, dust mites, as well as pollen.

The Symptoms of Hay Fever or Seasonal Allergies

Individuals typically experience symptoms of fever shortly after they have been exposed to the allergen. These symptoms are very similar to the common cold and include itchy watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itching of the roof of the mouth and throat, and sinus pressure which can cause pain in the facial area.

Sometimes these symptoms can be severe and cause lack of sleep, tiredness, irritability, and in many cases these symptoms also cause people to miss work or school.

Treatments for Hay Fever or Seasonal Allergies

When it comes to the treatment of seasonal allergies, the first step you should take is to try and avoid or limit your exposure to the allergens as much as possible by remaining indoors with windows and doors shut while using air conditioning or an air purifier.

Mild to moderate allergy symptoms can be treated with over the counter medications which include antihistamines and decongestants in the form of nasal sprays, eye drops, liquids, and pills. In frequent or severe cases of hay fever, stronger prescription medications are also available which may include immunotherapy in the form of allergy shots.

Benadryl Liquid For Adults

I wish I could be paid a dime for every time I am asked the following question:

I have a hard time swallowing pills and I need to take some Benadryl - where is the Benadryl (diphenhydramine) liquid for adults? The truth is it doesn't exist...sorry dudes! However, there is a way to get around this problem by taking more of the Children's Benadryl Liquid than what is listed in the directions on the box.  

The Benadryl tablet for adults contains 25mg of diphenhydramine per tablet while Children's Benadryl Liquid contains 12.5mg for every teaspoon (5mL) of liquid (12.5mg/5mL).

To get a normal adult dose of Benadryl you should take 1 to 2 tablets every time you take it (25 to 50mg) and if you are going to take it more than once, you would repeat the dose every 4 to 6 hours. In order to get the same amount of Benadryl from the children's liquid you would have to take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls (10 to 20mL) per dose.

The moral of the story here is that even if you are past your younger years, you can still get the adult dose from taking the Children's Benadryl Liquid. You may have to buy extra bottles of the liquid, but at least the option is out there!

One other thing worth mentioning while we're on the topic of Benadryl - if you are having an allergic reaction to a substance and you are told to take Benadryl, you are still going to be taking the stuff that is in the pink box. You know, the pink box that says the medication can be used for sneezing, watery/itchy eyes, and runny nose. Benadryl does not come in a box with a claim on the front that says it's used for allergic reactions - just thought I'd clear-up the confusion as people often approach me about this issue!

Allergic Rhinitis In Children

Allergic rhinitis is very common in children and is found to be up to 30% in pediatrics world over. The cause can be either genetic or environmental. 75% of children suffering from asthma also have allergic rhinitis. Although it is not considered to be a life threatening disease, however it can affect a child's daily life and development. Various allergy tests, history and physical examinations are carried out to diagnose allergic rhinitis in a child. Pharmacotherapy, Immunotherapy, investigational therapies, behavior modification and avoiding allergens are used for treatment.

Types and cause

Irritants such as dust, smoke, pollen, animal dander in the environment trigger the release of histamines which results in inflammation in the nasal passage. Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs during pollen seasons and doesn't affect children under 6 years of age. Chronic AR however, stays throughout the year and is commonly seen in younger children.

It is very much inherited and 75% children who suffer from asthma also have allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms may be different from child to child. However the common symptoms include:

• Congestion


• Clear nasal discharge


• Itchy eyes, nose and ears


• Sneezing


• Runny nose

If it's chronic/perennial AR, then the symptoms may also include

• Persistent ear infections


• Fatigue

These symptoms may often be confused with other medical condition. Hence it is advisable to seek a physician for the right diagnoses and treatment. A doctor looks for dark circles around the eyes, swelling in nasal tissues and/or creases under the eyes when diagnosing.

Prevention

You can take the following measures for prevention:

• Avoid irritants such as dust, mites, cleaning chemicals or molds.


• During the pollen season try using air conditioning rather than opening the windows.


• Try avoiding pets.


• Keep your child well hydrated. Give him plenty of fluids including water, broth, soups, freshly squeezed orange juice.


• Give him vitamin C and antioxidants rich food to help strengthen immune system.

Treatment

• The best treatment is to avoid the allergen causing the problem.


• Over-the-counter antihistamines help in reducing the release of histamines and easing symptoms of sneezing, runny nose and itching.


• Use saline nasal sprays to reduce inflammation in the nose. But not for too long as there is a chance of worse rebound of congestion.


• You can either use the available decongestants in the pharmacy or try natural remedy to reduce congestion. If your child is old enough to do steam inhalation, then add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil in steaming water and help him inhale vapors. Else, make your child sit in the bathroom filled with steam to loosen up congestion.

If your child's allergic rhinitis doesn't get any better with the above medications and prevention, then your child may require immunotherapy which involves 3-5 years of allergy shots to help reduce your child's reaction to allergens.

Drinking Alcohol and The Asian Glow

Why do Asians' faces turn red when they drink alcohol? Well, I've done a bit of research into this while living in China and well, its simple as well as complicated. The majority of Asians experience this Asian glow, Asian flush, or alcohol red face because of the make-up of their bodies. That's the simple part. When it starts getting into ALDH2 deficiency, accumulation of acetaldehyde, enzymes, and whatnot it gets complicated. Wikipedia gets into detail, but if you're not a science major its tough to get around all the scientific jargon. Basically drinking alcohol causes the overproduction of some stuff and Asians are not able to get rid of it fast enough.

So were back at square one, what do Asians do when their face turns red from alcohol. What do they do about the Asian glow? That depends on where they live. For example, people in China just accept it as part of their live. Drinking alcohol, especially rice wine has a long history in china. Some of the most famous poets, intellectuals, and leaders wrote about drinking and being drunk for thousands of years. In recent decades beer and wine as well as western spirits have become popular among young people and ANY business deal wouldn't be complete without a massive drinking session. A red face, the Asian glow is just taken as it is because almost everyone experiences it.

For those Asians who have grown up in another country, such as the USA, there are a few options, but not many. In recent years it's been discovered that antacids can help with Asian glow. Antacids preventing Asian glow produces mixed results, with Pepcid and Zantac being the choice brands. This is kind of a trial and error approach to preventing Asian glow. I myself found these to work when I had one or two glasses but anything more and it only took the edge off the outward appearance of my Asian glow.

In the last year they've come out with a product called the No Red Face Formula that has worked miracles for me. I don't want this to turn out to be an advertising pitch, so I won't say too much about it. The site has all the usual "guaranteed to cure your Asian glow" stuff. It was really easy to use. There were no shots or pills. After I read their e-book and implemented the information they have written there my Asian glow was cured within two weeks. The price can seem a bit steep at first, but if you consider all the cash you would have to pay over time from antacids, pills or shots you're actually saving money.

Allergies And Sinus Support - Allergies Can Also Speed Up Your Heart Rate

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports that allergic disorders affect at least 50 million people in the US. Type 1 Allergies and symptoms include asthma, eczema, hay fever, headaches, swellings, fatigue, chills, sensitivity to light and loss of appetite. Type 2 Allergies could start in infancy or during childhood due to inherited tendencies and exposure to pollen, dust and environmental toxins, including all the chemicals we breathe and eat. It all starts with your immune system not handling whatever comes along!

Nature's Way has the popular Sambucol Immune System, which is a combination of liquid Elderberry, Echinacea, zinc, vitamin C and propolis (comes from the bee - a natural antibiotic). Elderberry was used by the Gypsies in Europe to make their wine. Many of the severe allergy symptoms are triggered by one's inhalation of certain functions of both T and B immune cells, important to all Cell-Mediated Immunity. Astra 8 Defense Builder by Health Concerns is a Chinese herbology formula, which has been designed as a response for what's happening within. It contains ( Astragalus for throat and cough), Ganoderma (Reishi) Ginseng, Codonopsis (for breathing), Schizandra (for liver) and Licorice (anti-inflammatory calming Lungs, Spleen and Kidney). Our clever Immune System is designed to differentiate between healthy compounds and harmful substances.

However, when it encounters the bad guys, it changes into an Allergic reaction. Chinese medicine calls it a pattern of imbalance and stagnation. Planetary Formulas with Mullein Lung Complex, (formerly known as Breeze Free), is an ancient botanical support for the Lungs, stuffy breathing, and other such conditions. It is a combo of Chinese Herbs (non-stimulant). Uncomfortable and unpleasant as these symptoms are, bloating and mood swings, of which any food can be allergenic, Wheat, Milk, Eggs, Corn, Soy, Yeast, and Food Additives, are some of the culprits. Type 2 is usually triggered by foods and environmental factors including hyperactivity and memory loss. Natures Herbs has an Old Fashioned Remedy CL-7 Formula with respiratory support herbs including Mullein (glands), Slippery Elm Bark (stomach), Elecampane (cough) and Hyssop.

Type 1 allergies are most commonly caused by Histamines, best known for chemicals that cause the action of an enzyme on Mast Cells. Histamines are released by specialized cells, the Mast Cells which causes small Blood Cells to become more adaptable to fluid (no wonder we get bloated!). Results are Swellings, Hives, nasal congestion and Eye Tearing. Simufix Caps and Sinumist by Natural Care are 2 helpers that will soothe Dry Irritated Nasal Passages promoting a Healthy Immune Response for Sinus and Allergy Symptoms. They contain Oregano Extract 4 to 1, Nettle, Quercetin (which strengthens the walls of the Blood Vessels), Goldenseal (a natural Antibiotic) and Grapefruit Seed Extract (also a powerful Antibiotic). The Mist is to spray in your Nasal Passages. I introduced this to some Fireman, who had worked on the mountain fires is Southern California that year.

They had been completely overwhelmed by the disastrous smoke in their lungs and it also played havoc with their Sinuses. Dr. John W Tintera, MD. found that deficient function of the Adrenal Glands accounted for various kinds of Allergies. Cited in his book "The Adrenal Syndrome", a deficiency of Adrenal response can account for many types of allergens that have their beginnings in Adrenal Gland Failures, part of your Endocrine Glands located near the Kidneys. Now Foods has Adrenal Support containing Cayenne, Ginseng (an adaptogenic herb), Astragalus, Gota Kola (Ayurvedic) and Licorice. Now Foods also has Air Defense with its Patented Extract of Paractin with Andrographis (excellent for the tummy and Immune), Elderberry, Echinacea, Astragalus and Olive Leaf (for immunity and infections). You can certainly combine this with Herb Pharm's Adrenal Support Tonic Tincture. Throw in a little Proplis Drops from Herb Pharm for Allergies, Respiratory-Big Time Fighters.

Histamine also causes a contraction of the smooth muscles and walls of the Lungs, Blood Vessels and Intestinal Tract and Bladder, itchy, Painful Ear and Stuffed Up Nasal Congestion (no fun). Clear Products has Clear Sinus And Ear, formulated by Stash Oz, (Masters In Traditional Oriental Medicine). Go to my Web Site to read all about our seminar. It has no stimulants, reduces swellings, ear Pressure and Moisture with Magnolia Flower (Xin Yi Hua), Scutellaris (Huang Quin), Perilla Leaf (Zi Su Ye) and Angelica Root (Bai Zhi). Another TCM is DR. Shen's Min Kan Wan for Dust, Pollen, and Animal Hair Allergens. Now for some Allergic Relief for those Peepers (eyes) subjected to all environmental toxins and chemicals. King Bio has Allergy/Red Eye Relief for Inflamed Watery Conjunctivitis and Swollen Shut Eyes with Granules stuck in the morning, when one awakes. Bioforce USA, the famous Dr. Vogel's Homeopathic Formulas has options for Swollen Watery Eyes and Inflamed Sinuses with Congestion. Similar to the Old Remedy Mustard Plaster, Dr. Singhas Mustard Bath opens all your portals, especially soothing for Stuffed Up Head, and doing away with toxic accumulations.

Allergies can also speed up your Heart Rate. Using a watch with a second hand, count your heartbeats for 60 seconds to find your average pulse. This is the number of times your heart beats per minute. Take this Pulse Test to find out which food you could be Allergic to. Take your Pulse 5 minutes before eating, after you have finished eating, if your Pulse varies as much as 12 to 20 beats after, a suspected food may be the answer. To give your Digestive Tract more ammunition Food Science Of Vermont has the Mega-Probiotic Nd with FOS (what's that? Fructo oligo saccharides-this promotes the good Bacteria from Veggies and helps break down Protein from undigested foods, another cause for Allergies). Another work in Progress for foods that are holding and causing dysfunction is the Planetary Formulas Three Spices Sinus Support. Hit this one with lots of Vitamin C. Now Foods has Pantothenic Acid which taken throughout the day could cater to those dreadful Sinus Headaches. You have to take enough, but it works! Or you might try .

More American Indian Herbs for clearing. Bio-Allers- Natra Bio Homeopathics has the year Round and Seasonal Relief Formulas. Great options for all ages, stimulating the body's natural defenses and inherited resistance to Allergies. For Air Borne Allergies, Tree Pollen. Mold Yeast & Dust Dairy Allergies, Grain Allergies, Animal Hair & Dander, Pet Allergies can be taken on a continuous basis. In addition, it is also good for the relief from down or clothing containing Allergens from Sheep or Wool. Conventional Medicine answers disease with powerful drugs never getting to the roots.

Over the counter Anti-histamines create undesirable side effects and toxicity. It may be true sometime we need them for the short term. Heel has the Euphorbium Nasal Sinus Relief Spray for Viral, Bacterial Rhinitis. Natra-Bio has Cold And Sinus Spray. Some of the Herbal Teas can help. Health King with Head And Throat Soother (you can image what that does!) Longjiang River Teas has some unusual herbs in the teas, but good tasting. Handy Packs for travel-just in case Nelson Homeopatics has the Sinus Packs. Food additives include antibiotics, food colorings, sulfites, MSG. All these increase Allergic Response. Stress, excessive intake of processed refined foods and nutritional deficiencies all are contributors. Allergies are now showing up in children of all ages. Hebron Naturals USA has Kids Goodypops Berry Buddies with Echinacea and Vitamin C. Allergy Shots are not always the panacea. Finding the right program that works for you, whether it be Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Chinese Herbology, it still comes down to finding the Wellness Within.

Suffer From Allergies? Learn More About the Types, Causes and Symptoms of Various Allergies Here

Many Americans suffer from allergies on a daily basis. Yet, when someone says allergies, that can mean many different things. Various people respond to allergens in different ways and there are many types of allergies. Three commonly seen allergies are insect sting allergies, food allergies and skin allergies. Each will produce its own symptoms and each will require its own treatment. A consultation with your doctor will determine how best to handle your condition.

Being stung by an insect means pain and discomfort for most people. Yet, for others, it may be a matter of life and death. This is due to the allergic reaction of some to the sting. When someone allergic to insects is stung, their immune system reacts strongly to the venom. They may itch, break out in hives, or have difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions to insect venom are most commonly caused by fire ants, hornets, honeybees, paper wasps and yellow jackets. The most extreme allergic reaction results in anaphylaxis. Symptoms include swelling of the tongue and throat, dizziness, difficulty breathing, stomach cramps, nausea and/or diarrhea, and itching or hives over a large part of the body. An allergist will need to work with you to control your reaction to the allergen. This may be done through allergy shots and carrying autoinjectable epinephrine.

Skin allergies often display themselves as dry, flaky skin; inflamed or blistered skin; swelling; a strange rash; or red, scaly or itchy skin. They are more familiarly known as conditions such as eczema, allergic contact dermatitis or hives. These are often unpleasant, but rarely life-threatening. One skin allergy, though, has been shown to cause anaphylaxis. This is a latex allergy and something that your doctor will need to evaluate. Treatment is available for skin allergies, but often you will find that you can prevent symptoms by avoiding the allergens as much as possible.

Food allergies occur when a person's immune system reacts negatively to proteins in a particular food. Many people suffer from food intolerance, yet food allergies are rarer than people imagine. Foods that are commonly seen as allergens include peanuts, shellfish, tree nuts, eggs, soy, fish, wheat and cow's milk. Symptoms include vomiting, stomach cramps, or diarrhea; a rash or red, itchy skin; angioedema or swelling; or a stuffy or itchy nose, sneezing or itchy and teary eyes. Treatments are available, yet prevention is often the best course of action. With any allergy, consult with your doctor who may refer you to a specialist depending on the severity of your symptoms.

Allergy Treatment - How I Cured My Allergies For Good

I know about allergies and asthma. My first 18 years of my life were spent going to Doctors and avoiding the allergens that would cause asthma attacks. I couldn't play baseball or have a dog growing up. I used asthma inhalers, took allergy shots for years, and allergy medications that turned me into a zombie. It wasn't fun, but at least I could breathe thanks to medications.

It took me 15 years, and hundreds of approaches to come up with my 5 step approach. Here is step 1 and 2:

My 1st step; juicing

After years of shots I started to take herbs and vitamins. I also took glandulars (thyroid, adrenal). The one thing that worked for me; juices. By drinking juices, especially carrots and greens, I noticed that my sinuses were more clear. I would suggest you start slow however, because carrot juice will"push" the liver to detoxify. The reason it works - the liver produces a lot of the histamine iin the body, and if the liver is toxic it will overproduce histamine and make your body respond with too much histamine.

My 2nd step: an air purifier

I started buying them in 1969 when I was 11 years old. I would take my lawn-mowing money and buy HEPA purifiers, UV purifiers, ionizers, etc. Yes, I've owned them all. In fact I have owned well over 52 at last count (plus I have tested and/or reviewed over 115).

So How Did The Air Purifier Help Allergies and Asthma?

I know longer have allergies or asthma, and the removal of toxins inside (juice and herbs) and outside my body (air purifier, etc.) returned my body to the non-allergic state.

A Few More Critical Facts about Allergy Relief

Fact #1: Removing what you are allergic to may not be enough. Even if you get rid of the allergen which affects you things like dust mites, mold, mildew, viruses, gases, VOC's, viruses, bacteria, germs, pet hair, and dander can all stress your immune system, making you more vulnerable to allergic reactions.

Fact #2: Air pollution can create or cause your allergies to get worse. Toxins coming in to the body from air and water pollution can cause the body to create additional histamines, which in turn make allergic reactions stronger

Fact #3: Most air purifiers use only 1-3 technologies to purify the air. By not using more of the 9 technologies available makes them ineffective at removing all 14 of the immune system stressors.

You can read more about allergy cures via my free e-books and websites...