Hay fever occurs when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, or mold spores. Unlike the common cold, hay fever is not caused by a virus — it is an allergic response driven by IgE antibodies. Symptoms can be seasonal (occurring only during specific pollen seasons) or perennial (year-round, often triggered by indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander).
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Frequent sneezing, especially in the morning
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Itching of the nose, throat, or roof of the mouth
- Postnasal drip and throat clearing
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping due to nasal congestion
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
How We Diagnose
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Our allergists will review your complete medical history, evaluate your symptoms, and perform allergy skin testing or specific IgE blood tests to identify your exact triggers. Knowing precisely what you are allergic to allows us to design a targeted treatment plan rather than relying on trial-and-error medication management.
Treatment Options
Treatment at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group is individualized and may include prescription antihistamines and nasal corticosteroid sprays, allergen avoidance strategies tailored to your specific triggers, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) to provide long-term desensitization, or sublingual immunotherapy (under-the-tongue tablets) if appropriate. Our goal is not just to manage symptoms but to improve your overall quality of life.
Ready to Schedule?
Do not let hay fever hold you back. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group today to schedule an appointment at one of our four Bay Area locations and get lasting relief. Call us at (408) 286-1707 or request an appointment online.