Hay Fever

1. 10 Common Allergy Triggers Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Quiz on Allergies
3. Nasal Allergy Relief Slideshow Pictures

• Hay Fever Overview
• Hay Fever Causes
• Hay Fever Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Hay Fever Diagnosis
• Hay Fever Treatment
• Hay Fever Self-Care at Home
• Hay Fever Medications
• Hay Fever Other Therapy
• Hay Fever Follow-up
• Hay Fever Prevention
• Hay Fever Prognosis
• Support Groups and Counseling
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Allergies FAQs
• Viewer Comments: Hay Fever - Symptoms
• Viewer Comments: Hay Fever - Experience

Most likely you or someone you know has allergies. The telltale itchy, puffy, watery eyes and red, stuffy nose signal changes in the seasons in homes and workplaces across the country. What these people suffer from is allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. The medical name for this condition refers to stuffy and itchy nose ("rhin-"), the most common symptom.

Hay fever is an allergic reaction. It is your immune system's response to foreign material in the air you breathe. Hay fever usually refers to allergies to outdoor, airborne materials such as pollens and molds.

About 15-20% of the population of the United States has some degree of hay fever. It is found equally in both men and women. Usually hay fever is seasonal, but it can last all year long if the allergen stays throughout the year. Spring and fall are the main hay fever seasons.

Must Read Articles Related to Hay Fever

Allergic Reaction An allergic reaction is an overreaction to a harmless substance. Symptoms and signs of an allergic reaction include hives, rashes, swelling, itching, wheezing, ...learn more >>

Allergy Shots Some allergens are simply impossible to avoid. You cannot live a normal life and completely avoid pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and certain other common trig...learn more >>

Allergy: Insect Sting Several insects belonging to the class Hymenoptera are capable of injecting venom into humans and animals. These insects include honeybees, bumble bees, hornets...learn more >>

See the Entire Hay Fever Topic Guide »