Hay fever, a form of rhinitis, is usually caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, which is inhaled. The pollen causes the release of histamine, which in turn causes swelling of the mucus membrane lining the nose and the symptoms associated with hay fever, blocked or runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, nose, throat & the roof of the mouth, in certain cases wheezing, asthma and a lack of energy.

The name hayfever implies an allergy to grass pollen, though grass, flower or tree pollen as well as fungal spores can cause hay fever.

Viral & bacterial infections as well as dust mites, animal fur, certain chemicals or virtually any pollutant, can cause rhinitis. The most common cause of rhinitis is the common cold.

Xlear Nasal Wash may help to reduce the severity of rhinitis by helping to wash out irritants that have already adhered to the sinuses, and acting as a barrier against new irritants.

Pollen Seasons:
- Tree pollen from 01/04/04 until 22/05/04 -
- Grass pollen from 23/05/04 until 08/08/04 -
- Weed pollen from 09/08/04 until 31/08/04 -

Click Here for the BBCi Pollen Forecast

NOTE: This information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or any other specialist.