Heinänuhana

Heinänuhana, commonly known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is a non-infectious inflammatory condition of the nasal passages. It is triggered by an allergic reaction to airborne substances, most frequently pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds, but also dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander. When an allergen is inhaled, the body's immune system mistakenly identifies it as a harmful invader and releases histamine and other chemicals. These chemicals cause the characteristic symptoms of hay fever.

The primary symptoms include sneezing, runny nose (rhinorrhea), nasal congestion, and itchy eyes, nose, throat, and ears. Some individuals may also experience watery eyes, post-nasal drip, and fatigue. While not a serious health threat, hay fever can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting sleep, concentration, and daily activities.

Diagnosis of hay fever is typically made based on a patient's medical history and symptom presentation. Allergy testing, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, can help identify specific triggers. Treatment aims to reduce symptoms and improve well-being. This often involves allergen avoidance, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and sometimes immunotherapy (allergy shots) for severe cases. The prevalence of hay fever varies geographically and seasonally, often peaking during spring and summer months when pollen counts are high.