What treatment options are available for hay fever?
October 9, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Sofia Karpinski
Dear doctor,
My name is Claudia Lenzner and I have been suffering from hay fever for several years. In the past few weeks, my symptoms have worsened and I have been experiencing more frequent sneezing fits, runny nose, itchy eyes, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been affecting my quality of life and I am looking for suitable treatment options.
Currently, I am taking antihistamines regularly to alleviate the symptoms. However, it seems that the effectiveness is decreasing and I am concerned that I may soon not be adequately protected against my allergy. Additionally, I do not want to take medication permanently and I am seeking alternative therapy options.
I have heard about different treatment approaches such as immunotherapy, nasal sprays, or homeopathic remedies, but I am unsure which option is best suited for me. I would like to learn more about the various treatment options for hay fever and understand their pros and cons.
Could you please explain in detail what treatment options are available for hay fever and which measure could be most effective in my case? I would be very grateful for your expertise and advice.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Claudia Lenzner
Dear Mrs. Lenzner,
I understand your concerns and would like to help you improve your quality of life despite your hay fever. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction to pollen or other allergens in the air. The symptoms you describe - sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing - are typical of this condition.
Antihistamines are a common treatment option for relieving symptoms. However, your body may develop a tolerance to the medication over time, causing the effects to diminish. In such cases, it is important to discuss alternative treatment options with your doctor.
An effective long-term treatment option for hay fever is allergen immunotherapy, also known as specific immunotherapy. This involves regularly introducing small amounts of the allergen to the body to slowly desensitize the immune system and prevent an excessive reaction. This therapy can lead to a decrease or even complete disappearance of your allergy symptoms in the long term.
Nasal sprays, especially corticosteroid sprays, can also help alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation in the nose. Some patients use homeopathic remedies as an alternative treatment option, but there is currently no scientific evidence of their effectiveness in treating hay fever.
It is important to discuss your symptoms and concerns with your doctor to find the best treatment option for you together. Every patient responds differently to therapies, so individual counseling and care are crucial.
I recommend scheduling an appointment with an allergist or ENT doctor to receive a comprehensive diagnosis and create a treatment plan together. Remember that hay fever is manageable and with the right therapy, you can significantly reduce your symptoms.
I hope this information helps you and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have. I wish you all the best on your path to recovery.
Best regards,
Sofia Karpinski, General Practitioner
