hayfever

• Hayfever/Allergic rhinitis

  Can affect some people all year round ( allergic rhinitis)
• Allergic reaction


  1. Body comes into contact with allergens/foreign particles

  2. Body produces antibodies to attack the particles

  3. Histamine is released

  4. Causing symptoms of allergy
• Symptoms of allergic rhinitis

  • Rhinorrhoea (runny nose)
  • Nasal congestion
  • Itchy nose
  • Scratchy throat
  • Watery eyes
  • sneezing
• Causes of allergic rhinitis

  • Seasonal - Tree pollen, Grass pollen
  • House dust, Dust mites
  • Food allergy-shellfish, eggs, nuts
  • Asthma/Atopic eczema
  • Exposure to smoke
• Symptoms requiring referralin hayfever

  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Painful ear
  • Purulent conjunctivitis/severe secondary infection that affects the eyes
• Treatments for allergic rhinitis

  • Antihistamines (non-sedating: Acrivastine, Cetirizine, Loratadine; sedating: Chlorpheniamine, Promethazine, Diphenhydramine)
  • Nasal Sprays (Steroids: Beclometasone, Fluticasone, Budesonide; Decongestants: Oxymetazoline, Xylometazoline)
  • Eye drops (Sodium cromoglycate 2%)
  • Topical treatment (Crotamiton, Mepyramine, Hydrocortisone)
• Interactions of sedating antihistamines with other medicines that cause drowsiness can be potentiated
• Advice for high pollen count

  • Close windows & stay indoors
  • Wear sunglasses
  • Avoid fields, parks, cutting grass
• what is the drug name for Benadryl and age licensing

  Acrivastine

  12-65yrs
• drug name and age licensing for piriton?

  Chlorpheniamine

  2yrs>
• age restriction for steroids treatment in nasal sprays

  18yrs>
• what is the max duration of treatment for decongestants

  1 week

  can cause rebound congestions if used >1 week