Causes
Allergic rhinitis happens when an allergen (an allergy-producing substance, such as pollen) causes your body to defend itself by producing antibodies. When an allergen and an antibody combine, your body releases histamine and other chemical substances into your bloodstream, which causes an allergic response. Pollen, dust, mold or other substances that can be inhaled, are common allergens that cause symptoms.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually results from tree, grass, weeds or pollen and is experienced during summer. Perennial allergic rhinitis can cause year-round symptoms. This allergic reaction is the result of indoor irritants such as feathers; mold spores, animal dander's (hair and skin shed by pets), or mould spores, which are carried in the air.
What are the signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
Signs of allergic rhinitis are similar to signs of a common cold. But, unlike common cold symptoms, allergic rhinitis can last for more than 8-10 days and may include:
- A stuffy nose or a runny nose.
- Sneezing.
- Itchy nose, itchy eyes or watery eyes.
- Children who have allergic rhinitis might have dark circles under their eyes, or use the palm of their hand to push their nose up as they try to stop the itching (called the "allergic salute").
- Coughing caused by clear mucus running down the back of your throat
Treatment
The best treatment for your allergy is to avoid the allergen. When this is not possible, medication can usually control the symptoms of a reaction. These medications are used to treat allergic rhinitis:
Antihistamines block the action of the histamine (the substance which triggers the reaction). They are considered the "mainstay of treatment." They are more effective when taken around the clock. They can cause you to become drowsy, especially if you combine them with alcohol. Other side effects include dizziness, blurred vision, insomnia, tremors, nausea and dry mouth. If any of the side effects are a problem, discuss them with your practitioner
Decongestants can give short-term relief from nasal stuffiness. However, many decongestants promote histamine release. This can cause a "rebound" effect that ultimately makes you even more congested than before. Use them only on a short-term, special occasion basis (i.e., unable to sleep for several nights, a test, a date, etc.).
Corticosteroids may lessen your allergic reaction by preventing body cells from responding to histamine. For allergic rhinitis, these compounds are administered via a nasal spray. Minimal side effects have been found even with chronic use at customary dosage. For profound allergy symptoms, a one-time very short course of systemic cortisteroid may be considered as a last resort.
Cromolyn sodium inhibits the body's release of histamine after exposure to an antigen, which can lessen or stop the allergic response. If you are allergic to a substance that you are exposed to occasionally, you would only take this medication prior to exposure. Side effects are minimal. Unfortunately, not everyone is helped by this medication.
Immunotherapy or (allergy shots) are also used in cases of allergic rhinitis. It is effective only when a specific allergen can be identified. Since you are allergic to the substance injected, you may experience severe allergic responses. Therefore, if you undergo immunotherapy, you should work closely with your physician and report any symptoms of reaction to the injection. Immunotherapy is not a "quick fix" and may take six months before effectiveness is noted. It is very helpful for many people.
Prevention
You cannot prevent an allergy, but you can prevent a reaction. The most effective method you can use to prevent a reaction is to avoid the allergen that triggers your allergic response. Try these steps: Although it's best not to have pets when you have allergic rhinitis, washing your pet once a week and keeping it out of the bedroom and off the furniture will help.
- Put pillows and mattresses in sealed plastic covers that keep out dust mites
- Wash sheets in hot water every week.
- Feathers, foam rubber, or pillows more than five years old are often allergens.
