Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is caused by substances that we breathe called allergens. Allergens are usually harmless substances that can cause problems only in some people. These problems are caused because the immune system of people with allergic rhinitis mistakenly identifies these substances as intruders and generates a reaction against them. During this reaction, the immune system cells release substances such as histamine and leukotrienes that cause the symptoms of allergic rhinitis; these and other substances also cause inflammation in the nasal lining that makes the nose very sensitive to irritants such as smoke and strong odors or to changes in the temperature and humidity of the air.

Causes

  • When allergic rhinitis is caused by common outdoor allergens, such as airborne tree, grass and weed pollens or mold, it is called seasonal allergic rhinitis, or "hay fever."
  • Allergic rhinitis is also triggered by common indoor allergens, such as animal dander (dried skin flakes and saliva), indoor mold, droppings from dust mites and cockroach particles. This is called perennial allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms

  • Sneezing
  • Stuffy nose (congestion)
  • Runny nose
  • Itching in rhe nose, roof of the mouth, throat, eyes
    and ears

Diagnosis

If you have symptoms of allergic rhinitis, an allergist/ immunologist can help determine which specific allergens are triggering your illness. He or she will take a thorough health history, and then rest use to determine if you have allergies. Skin tests or blood tests are the most common methods for determining your allergic rhinitis triggers.

Treatment

Once your allergic rhinitis triggers are determined, your physician or nurse will work with you to develop a plan to avoid the allergens that trigger your symptoms. For example, if you are allergic to dust mites or indoor mold, you will want to take steps to reduce these allergens in your house as much as possible. Your physician might prescribe medication to decrease your allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Antihistamine pills and nasal antihistamine sprays block histamine, one of the most important mediators of the allergic response. The release of histamine during allergic reactions leads to many rhinitis symptoms, including itching, sneezing and runny nose. Antihistamines are not as effective for nasal congestion.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists come in pills and block the action of leukotrienes, also important mediators of allergy symptoms and of inflammation. They can work against all rhe symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce and control the impact of many of the mediators that can cause inflammation in the nose. These medications improve all symptoms of "- allergic rhinitis, including itching, sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. Nasal corticosteroids are the strongest medications available for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Decongestant pills or sprays can contribute in the care of patients with allergic rhinitis whose nasal congestion cannot be relieved with other medications. Decongestant sprays should not be used for long periods of time.

A nasal spray called ipratropium can be used to reduce runny nose.

Allergen immunotherapy, also known as "allergy shots," may be considered if your symptoms persist. This treatment involves receiving injections periodically--as determined by your allergist/immunologist--over a period of three to five years. The shot solutions contain the substances that you are allergic to. This treatment helps your immune system tolerate these substances and lessens the need for medications.