Hay Fever
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Eastside Medical Associates
Amy Lichtenfeld, MD
Board Certified Allergist-Immunologist & Internist located in Manhattan, New York, NY
If you’re among the 40-60 million people who suffer from the bothersome symptoms of hay fever, Upper East Side, New York City allergist-immunologist and internal medicine physician Dr. Amy Lichtenfeld, can help. Dr. Lichtenfeld treats teenage to adult patients with hay fever and other environmental allergies at Eastside Medical Associates. To find relief from hay fever, call or book an appointment online today.
Hay Fever Q & A
What is hay fever?
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that causes sneezing, a runny nose, and other cold-like symptoms. Unlike a cold, hay fever isn’t caused by a viral infection. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to environmental triggers — like pollen or pet dander — that doesn’t cause a reaction in most people.
Some people suffer from hay fever year-round, or perennially, while others only experience symptoms seasonally. Seasonal hay fever tends to appear in the spring, summer, and early fall.
What are the symptoms of hay fever?
Despite the name, you don’t have to be exposed to hay or develop a fever to suffer from this condition. Signs and symptoms of hay fever include:
- A runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Puffy, swollen eyes
- Sneezing
- Post-nasal drip
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing
- Itchy throat
- Fatigue
Hay fever symptoms may be so severe they interfere with your ability to sleep and affect your ability to focus throughout the day. It can even cause you to miss work, school, or activities you love.
What causes hay fever?
Common environmental allergens that cause hay fever include:
- Pollen from grass, trees, and weeds
- Pet hair or dander
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Cockroaches
Airborne irritants — such as cigarette smoke and diesel exhaust — can also trigger hay-fever-like symptoms.
How do you diagnose and treat hay fever?
First, Dr. Lichtenfeld performs a thorough physical exam and reviews your medical history. She asks questions about your work, home, and lifestyle habits to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
Dr. Lichtenfeld understands that every patient is unique, so she spends a great deal of time developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses your needs. She may perform a skin test or blood test to diagnose your allergy disorder.
Then, she recommends the best treatment for your specific condition. Depending on the cause and severity of your allergy, treatment may include:
- Avoiding the allergy trigger
- Medications to reduce symptoms
- Allergy shots
For your convenience, Dr. Lichtenfeld provides consultations and allergy testing in the same visit. If you think you have hay fever and want relief, call Dr. Amy Lichtenfeld or book an appointment online.
