What is allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies)?
Allergic rhinitis occurs when there is inflammation in the nose due to sensitivity of certain particles in the air, causing itching, sneezing and nasal congestion.
What causes allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is caused when an individual’s immune system overreacts to different particles (allergens) that are present in the air we breathe. The body believes these particles are infectious and reacts to the allergens by producing inflammation in the nose. Allergic rhinitis is the most common type of allergy people suffer from around the world, with up 30% of people suffering worldwide. Although nasal allergies are not life threatening, they can severely impact an individual’s quality of life, including their ability to work, concentrate at school, or get a good night’s sleep. Allergic rhinitis can be classified as seasonal (occurring only during certain times of the year) or perennial (occurring all year round).
Which allergens are most people with allergic rhinitis sensitive to?
- House dust mites
- Tree pollens (in the spring)
- Grass pollens (in the summer)
- Mold/fungus spores
- Animal dander
- Work related (wood dust, latex)
What are the most common symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
- Itching
- Sneezing
- Clear nasal drip
- Mold/fungus spores
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy/watery eyes
How do you treat allergic rhinitis?
There are a variety of treatments available to help treat allergic rhinitis. These include saline irrigations, topical nasal sprays, and antihistamines. For more severe disease, allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy is available for more dramatic and longer lasting relief.
