A runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and a stuffy or itchy nose. These are all signs that you may have allergies, or allergic rhinitis. The term rhinitis refers to inflammation in your nose. Allergic rhinitis that happens in only part of the year is often called seasonal rhinitis, or hay fever. Rhinitis that happens all year long is called perennial allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis usually isn't a serious problem, but the symptoms can sometimes disrupt daily life.
Allergic rhinitisA runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and a stuffy or itchy nose. These are all signs that you may have allergies, or allergic rhinitis. The term rhinitis refers to inflammation in your nose. Allergic rhinitis that happens in only part of the year is often called seasonal rhinitis, or hay fever. Rhinitis that happens all year long is called perennial allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis usually isn't a serious problem, but the symptoms can sometimes disrupt daily life.CausesYour immune system protects your body from germs, but sometimes the immune system can also react to certain harmless substances in the environment that are not germs. This kind of substance is called an allergen. When an allergen comes into contact with the body, the immune system releases chemicals called histamines. These are what cause your allergy symptoms.The most common environmental triggers, or allergens, are pollens, grasses, dust, trees, weeds, molds, and animals. Other common allergens are cockroach particles, dust mite droppings, dander from pets, and dried skin flakes. Smoke and strong odors are also irritants, as well as changes in temperature and humidity. All of these can cause symptoms of allergic rhinitis.SymptomsSome of the symptoms you might get with allergic rhinitis include runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion or blockage, sinus congestion or sinus headaches, watery eyes, itching of the nose, ears, skin, eyes, roof of the mouth, and throat, and coughing and wheezing, especially if you have asthma.DiagnosisYour healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and when they occur. Tell him or her if you've taken any medicines for your symptoms, and whether it helped. The next step might be skin or blood tests for allergies. Allergy testing can help your healthcare provider find out what triggers your symptoms.TreatmentYour symptoms may get better or go away if you stay away from substances that trigger them. Your healthcare provider might advise you to try medicines that block histamines. These medicines are called antihistamines. They are available over the counter at your local pharmacy, or your healthcare provider may prescribe you one. Some antihistamines can make you sleepy, others are less likely to make you tired. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about the specific side effects of each medicine.Your healthcare provider might also recommend decongestants. These can help relieve your stuffy nose. You don't need a prescription for most decongestants, but some are only sold with a prescription. Decongestants can make it hard to sleep. They can also make you irritable and feel like your heart is racing. They are not recommended for people with certain health conditions.Always check with your healthcare provider before taking a decongestant or other over-the-counter medicine if you have:high blood pressurea heart condition, orany other health condition such as diabetes, glaucoma, prostate problems, or thyroid problemsSteroid nasal sprays are one of the best treatments for allergic rhinitis. They are available by prescription and over the counter. They work best if you use them regularly.If you've had allergy testing, your healthcare provider might recommend allergy shots. Allergic rhinitis and asthma often occur together. If you have asthma, your healthcare provider might recommend additional treatments.Things to rememberAllergic rhinitis usually isn't a serious problem.Avoiding allergy triggers might help improve your symptoms.Several types of medicines might help relieve your symptoms.Before taking any over-the-counter medicine, talk with your healthcare provider.Allergy shots may improve your symptoms in the long term.If you have allergic rhinitis, talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms.Working with your healthcare provider is the best way to get answers and help yourself feel better.What we have learnedPollen is common cause of allergic rhinitis. True or false? The answer is true. Pollen is a type of allergen.Decongestants will probably make you feel sleepy. True or false? The answer is false. Decongestants can make it hard for some people to sleep.Steroid nasal sprays and allergy shots can help your symptoms long term. True or false? The answer is true. These medicines can help lessen your symptoms for long periods of time.
Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2021
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