Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is typically not a life-threatening condition. It is an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and watery eyes. While hay fever can be extremely uncomfortable and significantly impact one’s quality of life, it does not directly cause death.
However, severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, can occur in some individuals who are highly sensitive to certain allergens. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. It can lead to difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
While it is uncommon for hay fever alone to cause a severe allergic reaction, individuals with a history of severe allergies or asthma may have an increased risk of experiencing anaphylaxis. If someone with hay fever has a known severe allergy to a specific allergen, such as bee stings or certain foods, they should take precautions to avoid exposure and carry appropriate medications (such as epinephrine auto-injectors) in case of an emergency.
However, hay fever does cause sneezing, which could result in momentary distraction which could potentially cause a person to be involved in a motor accident or other accident, which could potentially lead to death or injury.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of anaphylaxis, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services (911 in the United States or the local emergency number in your country) or visiting the nearest emergency department.
