Health

Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever) and Allergic Conjunctivitis (eye allergy)

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is a common condition that can range from being quite minor to something that can have a negative impact on quality of life. The good news is that by having a management plan in place, symptoms and discomfort can be significantly reduced. 

What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is one of the most common allergic conditions, affecting one in five people in Australia.

Despite its common name, it is not caused by hay and does not result in fever.

Allergic  rhinitis is caused by the nose and/or eyes coming into contact with allergens in the environment such as pollens (grasses, weeds or trees), dust mites, moulds and animal  dander (flakes of skin in animal  fur, hair or feathers).

The body’s immune system reacts to these common allergens – which for most people  are harmless – and causes symptoms.

Common symptoms include runny nose, itchy nose, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, blocked nose and snoring. Some people  need to clear their throat often because mucus can run from their sinuses to the back of the throat.

Poorly treated or untreated allergic rhinitis can lead to trouble sleeping,  daytime tiredness, headaches, poor concentration, frequent ear or sinus infections, and even asthma  which can be more difficult to control.

Although medications do not cure allergies, they can improve symptoms and have very few side effects. It is important to use them correctly.

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the eyes, known as the ‘conjunctiva’.People with allergic conjunctivitis can experience:

• Redness in both eyes
• Itching and burning of the eye and the surrounding area
• Watery eyes
• Painful eyes in direct sunlight
• Swollen eyelids 

Most people with allergic conjunctivitis also have allergic rhinitis.

Management of allergic conjunctivitis begins with avoiding the allergen/trigger where possible. However, even if the allergen can be avoided, many people will still need medication.