Hay fever, medically known as allergic rhinitis, is an immune system reaction to airborne substances that are usually harmless. These substances, called allergens, can include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. When someone with hay fever inhales these allergens, their body mistakenly identifies them as threats, triggering a specific immune response. This reaction leads to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, though a fever is not typically among them.
Understanding Hay Fever Symptoms
Hay fever symptoms arise as the immune system releases chemicals like histamine in response to allergens. Common manifestations include frequent sneezing, often in rapid succession. Individuals may also experience a runny nose with clear discharge or nasal stuffiness, making breathing difficult. The eyes, nose, throat, and even the roof of the mouth can become intensely itchy, accompanied by watery or red eyes.
Other symptoms can involve a cough, which may result from postnasal drip. Some people report headaches, sinus pressure, or dark circles beneath the eyes. While these symptoms can be quite bothersome and lead to fatigue, they represent an allergic response and not an infection.
Distinguishing Allergies from Infections
Understanding the differences between hay fever and common infections like colds or the flu is important, as their symptoms can sometimes overlap. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to harmless airborne particles. In contrast, a common cold or the flu is caused by a virus that infects the respiratory system.
This difference explains why fevers are absent in hay fever. The body generates a fever to combat bacterial or viral infections, releasing substances called pyrogens. Since allergies do not involve these pathogens, no pyrogens are released, and no fever occurs.
Itchiness is a hallmark symptom of hay fever that is far less common with a cold. Nasal discharge in allergies is typically clear and watery, while a cold might produce thicker, sometimes colored, mucus. The onset of hay fever symptoms can be sudden after allergen exposure, whereas cold symptoms often develop gradually. A cold usually resolves within 7 to 10 days, but hay fever symptoms can persist for weeks or even months. Body aches are more indicative of a viral infection like a cold or the flu.
When a Fever Accompanies Allergy Symptoms
When a fever appears alongside allergy-like symptoms, it signals a separate health issue. This commonly indicates a concurrent viral illness, such as a cold or the flu. It is also possible that inflammation caused by allergies has made the body more susceptible to a secondary bacterial infection.
Allergies can lead to prolonged nasal congestion and inflammation, which can create an environment favorable for bacterial growth. This can result in complications like sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses, or even ear infections. These secondary infections are capable of causing a fever. If a fever develops, especially if it is high or persistent, seeking medical attention is advisable. Consulting a healthcare professional is also prudent if allergy symptoms worsen significantly, interfere with daily life, or if over-the-counter medications don’t help.