Allergic Rhinitis: Causes, Symptoms, And Methods That May Help Control It

[LoShiNi]

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis (sometimes called ‘hay fever’) is a condition in which the inner part of the nose becomes inflamed when you come into contact with an allergen, such as pollen, dust, mold, or animal dander. The condition is very common – from 40 million to 60 million Americans have it.

Allergic rhinitis can be:

- seasonal – affects people who are allergic to pollen or other allergens that are present in the environment only in certain seasons;

- perennial – can occur at any time of the year and is caused by indoor allergens, such as dust mites or pet dander.

What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include the following:

- constant sneezing;

- runny or stuffy nose;

- watery and itchy eyes;

- itchy nose, throat, or ears.

Despite the condition’s colloquial name, fever is not on the list of symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Certain substances and other factors can aggravate the condition. They include:

- smoke;

- colognes and perfumes;

- hairspray;

- exhaust fumes;

- humidity;

- changes in weather, such as wind and cold temperatures.

How is allergic rhinitis diagnosed and treated?

You doctor will look at your medical history, ask you about your symptoms, and perform a physical exam. He or she may also recommend an allergy test, such as lab tests or a skin test, in which a small amount of possible allergen is placed into your skin to see whether it causes a reaction. If you’re allergic, your doctor will probably prescribe medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, to treat your symptoms. If your allergy is severe, immunotherapy may be recommended. Also, there some natural methods of how you can relieve annoying allergic attacks:


How can allergic rhinitis be controlled?

You can’t prevent allergic rhinitis, but you can take steps to relieve your symptoms, which includes limiting your exposure to allergens as much as possible:

- if you are allergic to dust mites, wet mop hard floors instead of sweeping, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, wash bedding once a week in hot water, and wipe dust from surfaces with a clean damp cloth;

- if you’re allergic to animal dander, saliva, or urine, don’t let your pet into your bedroom, bathe him or her more often, and regularly wash bedding and soft furnishings your pet has been on;

- if you’re allergic to pollen, try to stay indoors when there’s too much pollen in the air, don’t hang your clothes outside to dry, put on sunglasses to protect your eyes, and take a shower after being outside;

- if you’re allergic to mold, use a dehumidifier in places in your house that are damp, and clean your bathroom, kitchen, and basement often.