Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, happens when you breathe in something to which you are allergic, and the inside of your nose becomes inflamed and swollen.

What are the causes?

Allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergens. Allergens can be found both outdoors and indoors. When allergic rhinitis is caused by outdoor allergens, e.g., mould or trees, grass and weed pollens — it is often referred to as seasonal allergies, or “hay fever”. Allergic rhinitis may also be triggered by allergens found in the home, such as animal dander, indoor mould, or house dust mites.

What is the treatment of allergic rhinitis? 

1. Avoidance of allergens 

Sometimes people can treat their allergic rhinitis simply by avoiding the things that trigger symptoms.

2. Treatment with drugs 

• Glucocorticoid nasal sprays (steroids) delivered by a nasal spray are the first-line treatment for the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

• antihistamines

• decongestant nasal sprays or drops to unblock your nose 

• salt water nasal sprays or solutions to rinse out the inside of your nose

3. Immunotherapy 

Immunotherapy involves trying to alter the way a person's immune system reacts to allergens.