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Allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a kind of inflammation in the nasal airways that r...

Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is a kind of inflammation in the nasal airways that results from an allergic reaction to allergens present in the air. Here’s a summary of its symptoms, epidemiology, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Overview:

Allergic rhinitis involves swelling of the mucous membranes lining the nose due to contact with substances such as pollen grains, house dust mites, animal fur and Mould spores which may be seasonal or perennial.

Symptoms:

  • Sneezing
  • Runny or congested nose
  • Itchy or watery eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Postnasal drip
  • Itchy throat or ears
  • Fatigue or irritability (due to disrupted sleep)
  • Decreased sense of smell or taste (less common)

Epidemiology:

  • The worldwide prevalence of allergic rhinitis is between approximately 10-30% in adults and up to 40% in children.
  • Although it can occur at any age-group, it more often begins during childhood or adolescence.
  • In several parts of the globe especially urban areas there has been a growing incidence of allergic rhinitis.

Causes:

  • Allergic sensitization: Allergic rhinitis occurs when non-harmful substances (allergens) stimulate our immune systems to produce antibodies like immunoglobulin E (IgE).
  • Common allergens: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and certain foods can trigger allergic rhinitis.
  • Genetic predisposition: Having a family history of allergies makes an individual vulnerable to developing allergic rhinitis.

Diagnosis:

  • Medical history and physical examination: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and exposure to allergens and perform a nose and throat physical examination.
  • Allergy testing: Skin prick tests or blood tests (specific IgE tests) may be performed to identify allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis.
  • Nasal endoscopy: In some cases, sometimes nasal endoscopy can be done so as to evaluate signs of inflammation or other abnormalities in nasal passages and sinuses.

Treatment:

  • Allergen avoidance: Reducing your contact with certain elements such as the use of air purifiers, closing windows during peak pollen seasons, avoiding pets or similar things can help alleviate the symptoms.
  • Medications:
  • Antihistamines: These drugs block histamine actions, a chemical released during allergic reactions. Symptoms like sneezing and itching are reduced by these medications.
  • Nasal corticosteroids: This class of medicines is effective for reducing inflammation within nasal passages and is usually the first line treatment for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis.
  • Decongestants: Oral or intranasal decongestion may reduce nasal congestion but they should be used carefully for short periods to avoid rebound congestion.
  • Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (under-the-tongue tablets) may be recommended for individuals with severe or persistent allergic rhinitis who do not respond to other treatments.

Prevention:

  • To avoid allergic rhinitis, it is best to discover and prevent allergens.
  • Vacuuming regularly, covering bedding with special materials that prevent allergens from getting in, and keeping the air in rooms dry can help decrease exposure to dust mites and molds.
  • In order to minimize contact with outdoor allergens, one should shut the window and turn on the air conditioner when pollen count is high.

Although allergy sufferers may suffer poor quality of life due to chronicity of the condition, they can still manage their symptoms if guided accordingly by a specialist. The best way to control allergic rhinitis is through close collaboration with a medical professional in order to determine the severity of one’s symptoms as well as specific causes and thereby develop a personalized treatment method.

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