Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an atopic disease characterized by symptoms of nasal congestion, clear rhinorrhea, sneezing, postnasal drip, and nasal pruritis. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for allergic rhinitis, including home remedies, medications, and surgical interventions. Additionally, we will highlight the expertise of Dr. Meenesh Juvekar, a renowned ENT specialist in Chembur and Bombay Hospital, known for providing excellent care for patients with allergic rhinitis.
Causes of Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis develops when the body’s immune system recognizes and reacts to something in the environment which they are allergic to. Causes can be divided into two halfes:-
- Seasonal: Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis can occur in spring, summer, and early fall. They are usually caused by allergic sensitivity to airborne mold spores or to pollens from trees, grass, and weeds.
- Perennial: People with perennial allergic rhinitis experience symptoms year-round. It is generally caused by dust mites, pet hair or dander, cockroaches, or mold. Underlying or hidden food allergies rarely cause perennial nasal symptoms.
Symptoms of Allergic rhinitis
When a sensitive person inhales an allergen, the body’s immune system may react with the following symptoms (listed in order of frequency):
- Stuffy nose due to blockage or congestion
- Runny nose or post nasal drainage
- Itching, usually in the nose, mouth, eyes, or throat
- Red and watery eyes
- Puffy, swollen eyelids
- Sneezing
- Cough
Allergic rhinitis can be associated with:
- Decreased concentration and focus
- Limited activities
- Irritability
- Sleep disorders
- Fatigue
- Missed days of work or school
Treatment Options
- Avoidance- The first approach in managing seasonal or perennial forms of allergic rhinitis or hay fever should be to avoid the allergens that trigger symptoms, if possible.
- Home Remedies- Mild cases of allergic rhinitis can often be managed with home remedies. These include steam inhalation, saline nasal irrigation, using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and applying warm compresses to the face.
- Medications includes
- Decongestants nasal drop help relieve the stuffiness and pressure caused by swollen nasal tissue. They do not contain antihistamines, so they do not cause antihistaminic side effects. They do not relieve other symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
- Intranasal corticosteroids are the single most effective drug class for treating allergic rhinitis. They can significantly reduce nasal congestion as well as sneezing, itching and a runny nose.
- Antihistamines help to relieve nasal allergy symptoms such as:
- Sneezing and an itchy, runny nose
- Eye itching, burning, tearing and redness
- Itchy skin, hives and eczema
- Leukotriene pathway inhibitors (montelukast, zafirlukast and zileuton) block the action of leukotriene, a substance in the body that can cause symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
- Immunotherapy may be recommended for people who don’t respond well to treatment with medications or who experience side effects from medications, who have allergen exposure that is unavoidable or who desire a more permanent solution to their allergies. Immunotherapy can be very effective in controlling allergic symptoms, but it doesn’t help the symptoms produced.
Dr. Meenesh Juvekar: Your Trusted Sinusitis Specialist in Chembur & Bombay Hospital.When seeking help for sinusitis, it is crucial to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable specialist. With his comprehensive understanding of Allergic rhinitis and its management, Dr. Juvekar provides personalized care and treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.