Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)

Allergic Rhinitis (commonly called Hay Fever) is caused by inhaling airborne particles (like pollens) to which you may be allergic. These are called allergens. Out of the more than 67 million Americans who suffer from allergies, 24-40 million suffer from an airborne allergy, such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis.

These allergies are caused by: pollen, pet dander, dust particles and mold spores

How Pollen and other Allergy Particles Move

During pollen season, plants like ragweed, cattail and maple tree release their pollen to initiate their reproductive processes with nearby plants of their species, increasing pollen levels in the surrounding areas. Pollens are carried by the wind, so not all of them reach their targets, and instead they land on you. This is why pollen is frequently present in the air we breathe.

Pollen forecasts that take into account the weather are important signals - pollen can't travel in the rain. If you are sensitive to pollen, you will experience an allergic reaction.

Two Kinds of Rhinitis for Allergy Sufferers

Taking into account the airborne allergens listed above, there are two forms of allergic rhinitis: Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (also called Hay Fever or Pollinosis) and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis. (Click here to learn about treatment options).

General Symptoms of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

Perennial Rhinitis

General symptoms include:

• sneezing
• clear and watery nasal discharge and congestion
• itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• watery eyes

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis occurs during specific flowering periods during pollen season when plants are shedding their pollen. In general, trees flower in the spring, grasses in the summer and weeds in the fall.

The pollen forecast is a powerful tool for predicting high pollen days. Perennial Rhinitis, on the other hand, is characterized for its year-round allergy symptoms. Most symptoms are due to pet dander, dust, and mold. The weather forecast will do little to help you prepare for these symptoms.