Allergic Rhinitis
What is Allergic Rhinitis ?
Have you ever noticed yourself sneezing a lot in the presence of dust or smoke? If this occurs, you might be suffering from allergies. Your immune system, which operates like a shield for your body, is always ready to battle against attackers. However, it occasionally hyper-reacts to non-harmful objects like dust or pollen are dangerous. This confusion might result in allergic symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and sinus pressure.
Allergies can affect anywhere, but when they attack the nose, we call it Allergic Rhinitis
Allergies are common, but if your family has a history of these allergies, you could be the next.
Types of Allergens
When you are exposed to something that you are Allergic to, the symptoms begin to appear. We refer to these as allergens.
Difference between Allergic Rhinitis and Common Cold!
Allergic Rhinitis is often misunderstood as a common cold since it shares some typical symptoms like blocked nose and sneezing. Allergic Rhinitis is not a viral illness like the common cold, and it may reoccur. Key differences between AR and the common cold are as follows:
Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis
Symptoms of Common Cold
Who can get Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic Rhinitis targets approximately 20% people of all ages. People with asthma or eczema can have a higher risk of falling prey to AR.
Symptoms can peak severely in children and also in people in their 30’s-40’s.
Common symptoms include
- Repeated sneezing
- Runny nose or Stuffy nose
- Watery and itchy eyes
Other symptoms include
- Fatigue and irritability
- Blocked ears
- Decreased sense of smell
- Swollen or puffy eyelids
- Pressure in nose & cheeks
- Ear fullness and popping
- Coughing
- Headache
- Itching in nose, or throat
Treatment For Allergic Rhinitis (AR)
The goal of treatment is improvement of the symptoms. Medications can help ease symptoms and, in some situations, lessen allergy sensitivity. If Allergic Rhinitis is not treated, it can progress to complications such as ear infections, sinusitis, and nasal polyps. Fortunately, there is a wide array of treatment options available which your doctor may prescribe based on your severity and type of illness.
Disclaimer: Before taking any medication, always consult your doctor as some medicines may have unknown side effects
- Antihistamines
- Nasal Sprays
- LTRA
- Decongestants
- Eye Drops
- Mast Cell Stabilizers
- Nasal Saline Washouts
- Immunotherapy
Antihistamines
Antihistamines treat allergic rhinitis symptoms like sneezing and congestion by blocking histamine (A substance released during allergic responses, leading to discomfort). They come in pills, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Talk to your doctor to find the right one for you.
Disclaimer: For detailed information or guidance about the treatments, kindly consult your doctor.
Triggers of Allergic Rhinitis
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR)
Seasonal AR, often called hay fever, is typically caused by outdoor allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (PAR)
Perennial AR (PAR) occurs year-round. It is usually triggered by allergens such as pet dander [tiny bits of dead skin shed by animals or birds], house dust mites, or molds.
Prevention
The best way to prevent Allergic Rhinitis is to avoid the allergen that causes it. Allergens, such as dust mites, are not always easy to spot and can breed in even the cleanest house. It can also be difficult to avoid coming into contact with pets, particularly if they belong to friends and family. Below is some advice to help you avoid the most common allergens.
If you have problems with pollens, molds, or other outdoor allergens
Stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are at their peak, usually during the midmorning and early evening and when the wind is blowing pollens around.
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Avoid using window fans that can draw pollens and molds into the house.
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Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to minimize the amount of pollen getting into your eyes.
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Don’t hang clothing outdoors to dry; pollen may cling to towels and sheets.
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Try not to rub your eyes; doing so will irritate them and could make your symptoms worse.
Nearly all allergens thrive in moist, damp, or dirty places. One of the best ways to lower your chances of allergic rhinitis is to keep these places clean and dry.
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Keep windows closed and use air conditioning in your car and home. Make sure to keep your air conditioning unit clean.
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Reduce exposure to dust mites, especially in the bedroom. Use “mite-proof” covers for pillows, comforters, and duvets, and mattresses and box springs. Wash your bedding frequently, using hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit).
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To limit mold exposure, keep the humidity in your home low (between 30 and 50 percent) and clean your bathrooms, kitchen, and basement regularly.
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Clean floors with a damp rag or mop, rather than dry-dusting or sweeping.
The proteins found in a pet's dander, skin flakes, saliva, and urine can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Also, pet hair or fur can collect pollen, mold spores, and other outdoor allergens.
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Wash your hands immediately after petting any animals; wash your clothes after visiting friends with pets.
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If you are allergic to a household pet, keep it out of your bedroom so you are not exposed to pet allergens while you sleep.
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Close the air ducts to your bedroom if you have forced air or central heating or cooling. Replace carpeting with hardwood or tile all of which are easier to keep dander-free.
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Cockroaches and mice cause allergies and asthma. Have a professional come to clear them out.
You can take a few measures to manage your Allergic Rhinitis in addition to treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are not the same. Allergic Rhinitis is caused by allergens that activate your immune system, but a common cold is usually caused by a viral infection.
Sneezing, itching, and runny nose are common symptoms caused by allergens such as pollen and pet hair.
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis occurs at distinct times of the year and is commonly caused by pollen, whereas Year-round Allergic Rhinitis occurs all year due to various indoor allergens.
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