Hay Fever, or Rhinitis, is irritation of the nasal mucosa and is most commonly of allergic or vasomotor origin.

Allergic rhinitis has Seasonal and Perennial variants.

Seasonal rhinitis symptoms usually occur in spring and early summer and are associated with grass, weed and tree pollen and are characterised by frequent sudden attacks of sneezing, with profuse watery nasal discharge and nasal obstruction, lasting for a few hours.

Perennial rhinitis allergens include dust mites, moulds and animal dander, with Hay Fever symptoms similar but more continuous and generally less severe than the seasonal variety.

Vasomotor rhinitis is the term used for nasal problem caused by physical or chemical irritants such as pungent odours or fumes, including perfumes, cold air, dry atmospheres; also psychological stimulation, such as anger and sexual arousal.  It has no identified medical cause, although in naturopathic traditions it is understood as being caused or exacerbated by diet.

One in 10 people are affected by allergic rhinitis and it is most common in those who have a personal or family history of eczema, asthma and urticaria.

Some considerations for better health:

Hay Fever prevention of both seasonal and perennial types involves avoiding exposure.

Hay Fever treatment involves, reducing the immune or inflammatory response, desensitisation by stimulating other classes of immunoglobulin and improving immunity.

Herbalists believe that diet can create a state of hypersensitivity and catarrh of the mucous membranes which predisposes to rhinitis.

For seasonal rhinitis, treatment must begin 6 weeks before the season starts and continue through the season. Dietary exclusions should also follow this time pattern.

Hay Fever remedies.  The most important nutrients for respiratory health include Vit C (a natural anti-histamine which dilutes excess thick viscous mucus) and Bioflavonoids such as quercetin, bromelain and proanthrocyanidins (these work synergistically with vitamin C).

If possible, remove dogs, cats, carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture and other surfaces where allergens can collect; or at least make sure the bedroom is allergy-proof. Encase the mattress in allergen-proof plastic; wash sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and mattress pads every week in hot water with additive- and fragrance-free detergent; consider bedding material made from special hypoallergenic synthetic material, install an air purifier.

If nose polyps are present, check for salicylate and aspirin sensitivity.

If sensitive to ragweed, eliminate watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, zucchini, cucumber and bananas. All these foods share a common allergen with ragweed.