Hay fever" becomes a painful condition every year in early spring.
Did you know that you can actually reduce the pain during the season by starting treatment before symptoms are in full swing?
◆What is hay fever?
Hay fever is a seasonal allergic disease caused by pollen from cedar, cypress, and other plants.
Nasal symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion, as well as itchy and bloodshot eyes are typical, and are also called "allergic rhinitis" and "allergic conjunctivitis".
In Japan, about 70% of hay fever is caused by cedar pollen,
Other possible causes include cypress, birch, grass, and ragweed.
When pollen enters the body, the body recognizes it as a foreign substance,
The release of substances such as histamine causes symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Do you have any of these symptoms?
- Clear runny nose, sneezing that does not stop
- have trouble sleeping because of a stuffy nose
- Itchy, red eyes
- Throat discomfort, cough
- Sluggishness, difficulty concentrating
When symptoms are severe, the quality of daily life (QOL) can be greatly reduced.
◆Test for suspected hay fever
Hay fever is suspected when similar symptoms occur every year during the pollen season.
A blood test (specific IgE antibody test) may be performed to investigate the cause in detail.
This test can be used to determine reactions to a variety of allergens, including cedar and cypress.
However, it is important to make a comprehensive judgment based not only on test results but also on symptoms and progress.
◆Treatment of hay fever
There are two main types of treatment for hay fever.
(1) Symptom Control Treatment
- Antihistamines (oral)
- Nasal drops, eye drops
- Steroid medication if symptoms are severe
It is used in combination according to symptoms and lifestyle.
(2) Treatment that works on the allergy itself
Allergen immunotherapy (sublingual immunotherapy) is a treatment that gradually acclimates the body to the substance causing the allergy.
Currently, it is attracting attention as a treatment that is expected to improve allergic conditions.
◆It is also important to take measures that can be taken in daily life
- Avoid going out on days with high pollen counts
- Remove pollen from clothing when returning home.
- Frequent indoor cleaning and use of air purifiers
A combination of treatment and lifestyle measures can better control symptoms.
◆Tests and treatments for hay fever available at our clinic
Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic offers the following services for hay fever
examination
Blood test (allergy test)
medical treatment
Prescription of oral, nasal, and ophthalmic medications
Allergen immunotherapy (sublingual immunotherapy)
This year I want to take action early."
I have the same symptoms every year."
If so, please feel free to contact us.
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