Hay fever leading to throat irritation? Discover home remedies and medications for relief.
In the realm of allergies, hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is a common affliction. This type of allergic reaction is triggered by various allergens such as grass pollen, tree pollen, weed pollen, mold spores, pet hair or dander, or dust mites [1].
When exposed to these allergens, the immune system responds by releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. This response leads to increased mucus production and swelling in the nasal mucosa [2].
The thickened mucus, known as postnasal drip, can drip down the back of the throat, causing irritation and leading to a sore throat [3]. This irritation is purely due to inflammation and mucus exposure, not infection, which is why an allergy-related sore throat usually occurs without fever [4].
Over-the-counter medications for hay fever symptoms include antihistamines and nasal sprays. Antihistamines block the effects of the chemical histamine and are most effective if taken before symptoms develop. Nasal corticosteroids and nasal antihistamines are effective treatments for hay fever [5].
In addition, saline nasal sprays can help keep nasal passages moist and reduce thick nasal mucus. Douching the nasal passage, as recommended by a doctor, can also provide relief [6].
To avoid hay fever triggers, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) suggests closing windows when pollen counts are high, wearing glasses outdoors to keep pollen from the eyes, using mite-proof bedding and vacuuming the mattress regularly, washing hands after petting an animal, avoiding hanging bedding or clothing outside to dry, minimizing outdoor activities between 5-10 a.m. when pollen is at its highest, avoiding mowing the lawn if grass causes symptoms, and avoiding raking leaves during the pollen season [7].
If hay fever symptoms persist or interfere with everyday life, it's essential to consult a doctor. People with allergies should also seek medical advice if they have a lot of sinus infections or nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, hay fever symptoms for several months of the year, OTC antihistamines do not work, or the symptoms are severe [8].
In the case of a sore throat, home remedies such as sucking on ice chips or popsicles, using a humidifier, using a cool mist vaporizer, gargling with salt water, and drinking warm beverages can provide relief [9].
While OTC pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help ease the pain and discomfort of a sore throat, they do not address the root cause of the issue in the case of hay fever [10]. Therefore, it's crucial to manage hay fever symptoms effectively to prevent prolonged discomfort.
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