Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Hay Fever (Rhinitis) | Symptoms & Treatment

What Is Hay Fever?

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a body’s allergic reaction to pollens. It tends to cause cold-like signs, such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, or a runny nose. But it is different from the common cold in which a virus is not the cause of hay fever. Instead, it occurs when the body reacts to indoor or outdoor allergens, such as pet dander, cat or dog saliva, skin flecks, dust mites, or pollens. While hay fever is typically harmless, it can be very unpleasant and disrupt your life. Learning which factors trigger your symptoms and how to avoid them can help. [1]