Health Tips for May 7

Health Tip: Facts About Hay Fever

Hay fever is the medical term for a pollen allergy, and may also be called seasonal allergic rhinitis or pollinosis.

Here are other facts about hay fever, including suggestions to reduce symptoms, courtesy of the American Lung Association:

* Symptoms often include congestion, red and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes and ears.
* Many people who have hay fever develop asthma.
* Hay fever is more common during certain times of the year in different regions, depending on seasonal pollen counts in those areas.
* Symptoms may be reduced by limiting exposure to the outdoors. Use air conditioning and air-purifying devices, stay inside, and wear a dust mask if you have to be outside.
* Antihistamines and decongestant medications can help control symptoms.

Health Tip: Have Hives?

Hives are red, raised patches of skin that are usually very itchy. Hives themselves often are not serious, but they may indicate a more serious condition.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists these common triggers for hives:

* Some medications.
* Foods that many people are allergic to, including shellfish, nuts, eggs and milk.
* Pollen.
* Dander from animals, notably cats.
* Bites from insects.
* Infections and some illnesses, including lupus and leukemia.
* Stress or anxiety.
* Prolonged exposure to the sun or the cold.
* Excessive sweating.