Hay Fever

If nasal congestion, constant sneezing, and a runny nose make every outdoor adventure a battle, talk to Robert McDermott, MD, and Amy Johnson, PA-C, about treatment for allergic rhinitis — more commonly known as hay fever. At Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies in Basalt and Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the team of allergy specialists provides comprehensive allergy testing and tailored care so you can stop sneezing and get back to enjoying your life, indoors and out. Schedule your hay fever consultation by calling the office or using the online scheduling tool now.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is an allergic reaction that typically flares up during hot, dry weather. The two types are:

Seasonal

If your symptoms crop up in spring, summer, and fall, you likely have seasonal hay fever brought on by pollen and mold spores.

Perennial

Perennial hay fever isn’t limited to just a season. It results from year-round allergens like dust mites or pet dander.

It’s possible to have both types of hay fever. If you do, you experience near-constant symptoms that become more severe during specific times of the year.

Why do I experience hay fever?

Hay fever is an immune system overreaction. The allergens that trigger it are harmless, but if your immune system perceives these irritants as threats and overreacts, hay fever can make your body go haywire with disruptive symptoms. 

While anybody can be susceptible to these reactions, you might be more likely to develop hay fever if you have close family with strong allergies.

What are the most common symptoms of hay fever?

Hay fever impacts people differently, but you may endure:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Sinus pressure or headaches
• Fatigue due to disrupted sleep
• Itchy throat, ears, or nose

Hay fever can feel similar to a cold but without the body aches or fever that usually accompanies one. Instead, as long as the allergen persists, the symptoms do, too.

What can I expect from hay fever treatment?

At Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies, Dr. McDermott starts by identifying triggers and exploring solutions to get you the relief you need. Treatment options may include:

Nasal corticosteroids

These reduce nasal passage inflammation, easing congestion and preventing other symptoms.

Oral corticosteroids

Oral corticosteroids can provide short-term relief. They also reduce inflammation and swelling, which is particularly important during severe flare-ups.

Decongestant medications

If nasal congestion is making it hard to breathe, Dr. McDermott may recommend medications to clear it and reduce sinus pressure.

Antihistamines

Blocking histamines can prevent symptoms like watery eyes, sneezing, and itching.

Immunotherapy with allergy shots

You may want to build a tolerance to allergens. This long-term treatment helps you do so, making your body less sensitive to triggers over time.

If you’re dealing with hay fever symptoms, Dr. McDermott can help. Schedule an appointment online or call Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies today to learn more.