Hay fever is medically referred to as what?

Hay fever is medically referred to as "pollenosis," which denotes an allergic reaction to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. This condition arises typically during certain seasons when allergens are more prevalent in the environment, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.

Understanding this term is essential in the field of environmental health, especially in the context of managing allergens and their impact on public health. Individuals with hay fever often require preventive measures or treatments to mitigate their symptoms during high pollen seasons.

The other terms have different meanings: "allergosis" generally pertains to a broader category of allergic responses but is not specifically used for hay fever. "Rhinitis" refers to inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane and can be caused by allergens, irritants, or infections, but it does not specifically denote an allergic reaction to pollen. "Asthma," on the other hand, is a chronic respiratory condition that may be triggered by allergens, including pollen, but is distinct from hay fever itself, which primarily affects the nasal passages.