Allergic Rhinitis
Definition and Overview
Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is an allergic response that occurs when the immune system overreacts to particles in the air. These particles, known as allergens, can include substances such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, or tiny flakes of skin and saliva shed by animals with fur or feathers. Allergic rhinitis is characterized by symptoms that include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, red, itchy, and watery eyes, and swelling around the eyes.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of allergic rhinitis is an overreaction of the immune system to allergens. When a person with allergic rhinitis breathes in an allergen, the body releases chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. These chemicals include histamine, which causes inflammation and swelling, and cytokines, which attract white blood cells to the site of the allergen.
Risk factors for developing allergic rhinitis include a family history of allergies, exposure to secondhand smoke, male gender, living in an urban area, and having other allergies or asthma.
Symptoms and Complications
The symptoms of allergic rhinitis can vary in severity from person to person. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, red, itchy, or watery eyes, and itchy throat or ears. Some people may also experience fatigue, irritability, and problems with smell or taste.
Complications of allergic rhinitis can include sinusitis, ear infections, sleep disturbances, and worsening of asthma symptoms. In children, allergic rhinitis can also affect school performance and quality of life.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of allergic rhinitis is typically based on a person's symptoms and medical history. A doctor may perform a physical examination and ask about the person's exposure to allergens. In some cases, a doctor may refer the person to an allergist for allergy testing. This can include skin prick tests, blood tests, or challenge tests.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for allergic rhinitis aims to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. This can involve avoiding allergens, taking medications, and in some cases, undergoing immunotherapy.
Avoiding allergens can be difficult, but strategies can include using air purifiers, keeping windows closed during pollen season, and washing bedding regularly to reduce dust mites.
Medications used to treat allergic rhinitis include antihistamines, decongestants, corticosteroids, and leukotriene receptor antagonists.
Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, involves gradually increasing exposure to allergens to desensitize the immune system.
Prevention
While it may not be possible to completely prevent allergic rhinitis, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. These include avoiding known allergens, maintaining a healthy lifestyle to boost the immune system, and considering immunotherapy if other treatments are not effective.