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Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

Forty-five million Americans suffer from a recurring disease called allergic rhinitis, also commonly known as "hay fever". Common symptoms caused by allergies are itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal stuffiness, nasal congestion and drainage, or headache. Some people experience hearing changes, scratchy sore throat, hoarseness and/or cough. Less common symptoms include dizziness, facial or throat swelling, and even respiratory problems, like asthma. Some allergy sufferers experience symptoms all year long and others find certain seasons cause allergy attacks. Symptoms are controlled best when multiple management approaches are used simultaneously. Minimizing exposure to allergens, using medications, and desensitization with allergy shots are all helpful in controlling allergy symptoms.