Hay fever

Definition

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to airborne substances like pollen. It involves the immune system overreacting and releasing histamines causing symptoms like sneezing and itching.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hay fever is a type I hypersensitivity reaction mediated by IgE antibodies.
2. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold spores.
3. Symptoms are caused by the release of histamines from mast cells in response to allergen exposure.
4. Antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids are common treatments for hay fever.
5. Seasonal hay fever is often linked to specific pollens released during particular times of the year.

Review Questions

• What type of hypersensitivity reaction is hay fever?
• Which cells release histamines in response to allergens causing hay fever symptoms?
• Name three common treatment options for managing hay fever symptoms.

Related terms

IgE:

A class of antibodies involved in allergic reactions such as hay fever.

Mast Cells:

Immune cells that release histamine and other chemicals during allergic reactions.

Histamine:

A compound released by mast cells that causes symptoms like itching and sneezing during an allergic reaction.