What is Allergic Rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis is a common condition. It happens when your body reacts to allergens in the air, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. In the United States, millions of people experience allergic rhinitis each year. Because your immune system sees these allergens as harmful, it releases chemicals that cause symptoms. This condition is also called hay fever, but you do not need to have a fever to have it. Although allergic rhinitis is not life-threatening, it can affect your daily life.

Common Symptoms

People with allergic rhinitis often notice symptoms soon after coming into contact with allergens. For example, you may start sneezing or have a runny nose. Other symptoms can include:

Itchy or watery eyes

Stuffy or blocked nose

Frequent sneezing

Itchy throat or ears

Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat)

Coughing, especially at night

Sometimes, these symptoms can be mild. However, they can also be severe and last for weeks or months. If you notice these allergic rhinitis symptoms often, it may be time to talk to your doctor.

Main Causes and Risk Factors

Allergic rhinitis is caused by your immune system overreacting to harmless substances. Common triggers include:

Pollen from trees, grass, or weeds

Dust mites

Animal dander (skin flakes from pets)

Mold spores

In addition, some people are more likely to get allergic rhinitis. Risk factors include:

Family history of allergies or asthma

Living in areas with high pollen counts

Exposure to cigarette smoke

Having other allergies, such as eczema

Because these factors can increase your risk, it helps to know your triggers. That way, you can take steps to avoid them.

Diagnosis Methods

If you think you have allergic rhinitis, your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms. Next, they may do a physical exam. Sometimes, allergy testing is needed. For example, your doctor may suggest:

Skin prick tests: Small amounts of allergens are placed on your skin to see if you react.

Blood tests: These can measure your immune system’s response to allergens.

Because other conditions can cause similar symptoms, it is important to get the right diagnosis. Your doctor will help rule out other causes, such as infections.

Treatment Options

There are many ways to manage allergic rhinitis. Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are. Common allergic rhinitis treatment options include:

Avoiding known allergens whenever possible

Using over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce sneezing and itching

Taking nasal sprays to ease stuffiness

Using decongestants for short-term relief

Getting allergy shots (immunotherapy) for long-term control

Although medicines can help, always use them as directed. For children, talk to your doctor before giving any medicine.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

While you cannot always avoid allergens, you can lower your risk. Here are some tips on how to prevent allergic rhinitis:

Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons

Shower and change clothes after being outdoors

Use air filters in your home

Wash bedding in hot water weekly

Keep pets out of bedrooms

Clean floors with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter

Because prevention can make a big difference, try to follow these steps every day. If you notice symptoms, act early to keep them from getting worse.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Most cases of allergic rhinitis are mild. However, sometimes symptoms can become serious. Seek emergency care for allergic rhinitis if you:

Have trouble breathing or shortness of breath

Notice swelling of your face, lips, or tongue

Feel dizzy or faint

Develop a severe rash or hives

Because these signs can mean a severe allergic reaction, get help right away. Quick action can save lives.

Conclusion

Allergic rhinitis can affect your comfort and daily life. However, with the right steps, you can manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. For personalized advice on allergic rhinitis, consult a healthcare professional.