First Aid News

Hay fever

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is the common name for allergic rhinitis.

Hay fever is caused by the nose and/or eyes coming into contact with environmental allergens, such as pollens (grasses, weeds or trees), dust mite, moulds and animal dander.

Most people associate hay fever with spring, when airborne grass pollens are at their peak. This is known as seasonal allergic rhinitis or spring hay fever. However, hay fever can occur at any time of the year.

When symptoms occur all year round, this is known as perennial allergic rhinitis. Perennial allergic rhinitis is usually caused by a reaction to allergens such as house dust mites, moulds, animal dander or occupational allergens.

Symptoms of hay fever

Some of the immediate signs and symptoms of hay fever include:

1. runny nose
2. itchy nose
3. sneezing
4. itchy, watery eyes.

If your child suffers from hay fever, please make sure the sick bay has a current medical authority form and in-date medication.