The term ‘hayfever’ (or seasonal allergic rhinitis), gives clues as to why this condition has the potential to make sufferers' lives so miserable. While hay is not the only cause, the redness and swelling of the tissues lining the eyes and sinuses that happens after being exposed to pollen can set off a chain reaction in the body, much like a fever does. While not life-threatening, the quality of life of a hayfever sufferer can really be affected.
Pollen is the most common cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis. People differ in the types of pollen they react to. Different plants flower at different times of the year. Some people may have hayfever symptoms in the spring, while others are affected more in summer or autumn.
Allergies happen when a person’s immune system reacts to an allergen like pollen. After exposure to the allergen, the body releases histamine, a chemical that causes swelling, itching, and fluid to build up in the tissues that line the eyelids, nose, and sinuses. These inflamed tissues feel sore and tender. Histamine enlarges small blood vessels, irritates nerve endings, and increases tear secretion. Symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy, runny nose, itchy eyes, ears, and throat, and nosebleeds are common. Eyes can look red or pink and feel painful, eyelids can feel swollen and sore. Severe hayfever symptoms can include sweats, headaches, loss of smell or taste, and facial pain from blocked sinuses. Tiredness, irritability, and insomnia can all be a result of dealing with unrelenting symptoms.