What is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic Rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is one of the most common allergic conditions, and occurs when the nasal cavity is exposed to foreign particles such as pollens, dust, etc. The person starts sneezing or develops a running nose on breathing something which the immune system is allergic to. Allergic Rhinitis is also referred to as seasonal allergies and is triggered by grass, pollen, dust and dirt in the air, and at times because of smoke and perfumes. Allergic rhinitis is not severe or fatal until accompanied by asthma or anaphylaxis, which can be significant.
Drugs namely Antihistamines is used to treat Allergic Rhinitis, and together with other drugs, they make up a fraction of over-the-counter drugs, and is prescribed every year.
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic response to specific allergens. Pollen is the most common allergen in seasonal allergic rhinitis. These are allergy symptoms that occur with the change of seasons.
Symptoms
What are the symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?
Some people notice symptoms rarely when exposed to allergens, while others may face them all the time. Consult a doctor if symptoms last more than a week. The most common signs and symptoms of Allergic rhinitis include:
- Sneezing
- Itching of Nose, eyes, and ear palate
- Congestion and headache
- Red eyes, swelling of eyes, tears, and ear ache
- Postnasal drip
- Anosmia
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Malaise
- Problems with smell
Treatment
Which specialty of doctor to be consulted for the treatment of Allergic Rhinitis in India?
Allergist or an immunologist is to be consulted for the treatment of Allergic Rhinitis in India.
Which hospital to be preferred for Allergic Rhinitis treatment in India?
Medanta - The Medicity hospital in India to be preferred for Allergic Rhinitis treatment in India.
FAQ's
1. What are the causes of Allergic Rhinitis?
- When human body comes in contact with allergens, body releases chemical histamine. This chemical acts as an immune system and causes allergic rhinitis. Common causes of Allergic Rhinitis are:
- Pollen
- Trees
- Dust and dirt
- Animal danger
- Cat saliva
- Animal fur and wood dust
- Mold
2. What are the risks associated with Allergic Rhinitis?
- Allergic Rhinitis can affect anyone, but is likely to affect those that have a family history. The main risk factors are:
- Smoke
- Cold weather
- Humidity and wind
- Hairspray
- Pollution
- Smoke due to burning of crackers, wood, waste, etc
- Perfumes and chemicals
3. What are the possible ways to prevent Allergic Rhinitis?
- The best way to prevent Allergic Rhinitis from occurring is to manage them by avoiding exposure to substances that cause allergies. Tips to prevent Allergic Rhinitis are:
- Avoid going outdoors when pollen count is high
- Exercise indoor early morning
- Showers right after coming from outside
- Cover your nose and mouth while in open
- Avoid using carpets at home if you are allergic to dust mites
4. How is Allergic Rhinitis diagnosed?
- At Medanta in India, in case of severe symptoms, Allergic Rhinitis tests that are recommended include:
5. How is Allergic Rhinitis treated?
- At Medanta in India, doctors may advice medicines for treatment depending on condition and severity of symptoms. The management of allergies may include:
- Antihistamines: Can be taken to treat Allergic Rhinitis. The medicines control production of hormone histamine in the human body. Some of the popular over-the-counter antihistamines are:
- Allegra
- Clarinex
- Xyzal
- Zyrtec
- Claritin
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
- If avoiding pollens is not possible, or symptoms are hard to control, allergy shots are given in small amounts till the symptoms come under control.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
- These are medicines put directly under tongue. It may help in cases of grass and ragweed allergies.
