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Understanding Hay Fever - Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are:

  • Prolonged, sometimes violent sneezing.
  • Itchy, painful nose, throat, and roof of mouth.
  • Stuffy, runny nose.
  • Postnasal drip, resulting in coughing.
  • Watery, itchy eyes.
  • Head and nasal congestion.
  • Ear pressure or fullness.
  • Fatigue.
  • These symptoms are often seasonal.

 

Call Your Doctor If:

  • Your condition becomes so severe that it interferes with your life and you're unable to control it with over-the-counter medications. Steroids, usually a nasal spray, can also be used but are only available by prescription.
  • A secondary infection often develops in congested sinus cavities; signs are fever, facial pain, a yellow or green discharge, postnasal drip, halitosis, and sinus or tooth pain or tenderness.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by James E. Gerace, MD on December 14, 2008
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