Inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes caused by an IgE-mediated response to external allergens. The inflammation may also involve the mucous membranes of the sinuses, eyes, middle ear, and pharynx. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, and itching. It may lead to fatigue, drowsiness, and malaise thus causing impairment of the quality of life

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

The following features are indicative of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • excess nasal secretion
  • itching
  • sneezing fits
  • nasal congestion
  • obstruction
  • conjunctival swelling
  • erythema
  • eyelid swelling
  • lower eyelid venous stasis
  • swollen nasal turbinates
  • middle ear effusion
  • coughing
  • post nasal drip
  • itching eyes, nose and throat
  • red and watery eyes
  • dark circles under the eyes

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Common Causes of Allergic Rhinitis

The following are the most common causes of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • pollens of insect-pollinated plants
  • allergy to Balsam of Peru

Risk Factors for Allergic Rhinitis

The following factors may increase the likelihood of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • having other allergies or asthma
  • having eczema
  • having a blood relative with allergies or asthma
  • living or working in an environment that constantly exposes you to allergens
  • having a mother who smoked during first year of life

Prevention of Allergic Rhinitis

Yes, it may be possible to prevent Allergic Rhinitis. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
  • wear a mask or respirator when near potential allergens

Occurrence of Allergic Rhinitis

Number of Cases

The following are the number of Allergic Rhinitis cases seen each year worldwide:
  • Very common > 10 Million cases

Common Age Group

Allergic Rhinitis most commonly occurs in the following age group:
  • Aged between 20-50 years

Common Gender

Allergic Rhinitis can occur in any gender.

Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis

The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Allergic Rhinitis:
  • Skin prick test: To diagnose allergic reaction
  • Allergy blood test: To measures the amount of allergy-causing antibodies in the bloodstream

Doctor for Diagnosis of Allergic Rhinitis

Patients should visit the following specialists if they have symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • Allergist

Complications of Allergic Rhinitis if untreated

Yes, Allergic Rhinitis causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Allergic Rhinitis is left untreated:
  • worsening asthma
  • sinusitis
  • ear infection

Medicines for Allergic Rhinitis

Below is the list of medicines used for Allergic Rhinitis:

Self-care for Allergic Rhinitis

The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • Stay protected against pollen or molds: Close doors and windows during pollen season and use dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity
  • Stay protected against dust mites: Use allergy-proof covers on mattresses, box springs and pillows
  • Use cockroach repellents: Block cracks and crevices where roaches can enter
  • Avoid pet dander: Keep pets out of your home

Alternative Medicine for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis

The following alternate medicine and therapies are known to help in the treatment or management of Allergic Rhinitis:
  • Herbal remedies and supplements: Helps in preventing seasonal allergy symptoms
  • Acupuncture Therapy: Helps with seasonal allergy symptoms

Time for Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis

While time-period of treatment for each patient may vary, below is the typical time-period for Allergic Rhinitis to resolve if treated properly under an expert supervision:
  • More than 1 year

Last updated date

This page was last updated on 9/22/2020.
This page provides information for Allergic Rhinitis.

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