30 Dec Allergic Rhinitis: What Are the Symptoms and Treatments?
Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, can be triggered by indoor and outdoor allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold spores, cockroach droppings, and perfumes.
At its worst, allergic rhinitis can have complications such as poor sleep and can worsen symptoms of asthma, sinusitis, and ear infections.
Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms and Cause
Allergic rhinitis and cold symptoms have similarities. However, the main difference between its symptoms is that cold has symptoms of muscle aches and fever.
Allergic rhinitis has the following symptoms:
- Nasal congestion and sneezing
- Itchy and runny nose
- Headaches and sinus pressure
- More mucus in your nose and throat
- Tiredness
- Sore throat
- Red and watery eyes
- Wheezing and trouble breathing
Sometimes its symptoms can also manifest on your skin. Some people also experience eczema-type symptoms such as:
- Having extremely dry and itchy skin that can blister
- Hives
These symptoms start to surface after being exposed to allergens.
Other common allergens, aside from pollens, include:
- Cat saliva
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Animal dander
There are also external factors that can worsen your allergic rhinitis, such as:
- Cigarette smoke
- Air pollution
- Chemicals
- Cold temperatures
- Hairspray
- Cologne
- Perfume
- Fumes
- Wood smoke
Prevention and Management
There is no way to prevent allergic rhinitis. However, you can minimize symptoms by avoiding allergens.
You can also reduce your symptoms by:
- Avoiding touching your face
- Closing your windows to avoid any allergens from going in
- Covering your beddings to protect it from dust mites
- Use filters in vacuums and air-conditioners to minimize allergens going inside your home
- Wash your hands after playing with pets
You can manage your symptoms, but you cannot cure allergic rhinitis permanently.
Some medications can help with the symptoms such as:
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
- Leukotriene inhibitors
It can also be managed by immunotherapy, which is done by having your health care provider give you a series of injections with a small amount of allergen.
Your doctor will increase the amount of allergen in the injections over time. As a result, your body will develop immunity to the allergen and stop reacting to it.
If you are experiencing allergic rhinitis, talk to your doctor about your treatment or management options.
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