Though we wait for summer in countries like UK, for some, it’s the beginning of a misery. These people are suffering with ‘Hay fever’, which can be quite a debilitating condition. Symptoms are runny nose, red watery eyes, sneezing etc. Some patients have these symptoms all year round irrespective of the weather. This is called perennial AR. It’s a good idea to be seen by a doctor, to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment is by antihistamines like Fexofenadine (III generation) or Cetrizine / Loratidine (II generation). For patients > 12, Fexofenadine is the best as it has no sedative side effect. Along with that a Nasal steroid like Nasonex or Flixonase can be prescribed. With more severe symptoms, combined Nasal spray containing Steroid and antihistaminics can be used like Dymista ( http://dymista.com/ ). The technique of using spray is very important. If eyes are affected, eye drops will be neccessary.
This website has got loads of information and videos for patients and parents.
