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Health

Allergic Rhinitis

Commonly known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the lining of the nose. This is triggered by environmental allergens such as house dust, moulds, dust mites, cockroaches, pollens and pet dander.

When your upper respiratory tract (the area from your nose to your lungs) is exposed to the offending parties, your immune system steps up, producing antibodies to eradicate them. Antibodies, made in the lymph nodes, release protective chemicals called histamines, which in turn cause the inflammation that leads to your uncomfortable symptoms. Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis, which can occur during any season of the year include itchy eyes, scratchy throat, stuffy nose and endless bouts of sneezing.

While both come with nasal congestion and drainage, allergic rhinitis is marked by an itchy nose and itchy often watery eyes, post nasal drip and -- a tell-tale sign -- not just one sneeze, but many in a row.

A cold often comes with a fever, and nasal drainage may be discoloured. A cold also gives you some advanced warning -- you're likely to feel achy and fatigued before symptoms hit. With an allergy, all symptoms descend at once, and most often last longer than a cold, which usually leaves your system in 7-10 days.

Physical Symptoms
People with colds or allergic rhinitis can both experience:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Postnasal drip

People with allergic rhinitis may also have:
- Sudden onset of symptoms
- Itchy throat, eyes and ears
- Red eyes
- Wheezing
- Nasal discharges that remain clear, thin and watery unlike the thick yellow or green mucus that accompanies a cold

How is Allergic Rhinitis Diagnosed?
Medical History - Your doctor will take a history, noting where your symptoms occur and what precipitates them. Family history is key, as allergies can be inherited.
Your environment will also be a consideration - do you have pets that might be sharing their dander with you? A leaky basement that might be producing mold? Are you an award-winning gardener inhaling too much pollen along with the scent of your roses? Some will experience allergies only during the spring and summer when irritants such as pollens and ragweed are rampant. Others who may be allergic to household molds and dust mites may experience symptoms all year round.

Physical Exam - Your doctor will conduct a physical exam focused on the upper airway, and may also be on the lookout for a distinctive crease across your nose known as an allergic salute caused by repeated up and down rubbing of the nose to relieve itching and enable breathing.

Many allergies can also be determined by conducting allergy skin tests, which involves injecting a small amount of an allergen; if you have an allergic reaction to the substance, you will develop a hive at the site.

How Can You Stop the Sneezing?
Avoidance - Find out what you are allergic to and devise a plan to avoid the offending allergens. If house dust and mites are to blame, cover your bedding with non-allergic, washable materials, and use pillows stuffed with polyester or other synthetic materials. House mites don't survive in extreme temperatures so wash your sheets weekly in very hot water (120 degrees or above).

Air filtration systems can work, but must take out more particles than what is being produced each hour (in other words, a filtration system may not work if the family cat is still napping on your bed).

If you are susceptible to molds and pollens, don't line dry clothing, as it will only bring the offending particles inside.

If you are going to be outside for a while, consider wearing a mask to decrease the amount of spores you inhale. Avoid the temptation to throw open doors and windows at the first sign of spring; while some ventilation is necessary, too much will welcome allergens. Finally, check your pollen counts to assess conditions in your environment.

Commonly known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the lining of the nose. This is triggered by environmental allergens such as house dust, molds, dust mites, cockroaches, pollens and pet dander.

Is It Allergic Rhinitis or A Common Cold?
While both come with nasal congestion and drainage, allergic rhinitis is marked by an itchy nose and itchy often watery eyes, post nasal drip and -- a tell-tale sign -- not just one sneeze, but many in a row.

A cold often comes with a fever, and nasal drainage may be discolored. A cold also gives you some advanced warning -- you're likely to feel achy and fatigued before symptoms hit. With an allergy, all symptoms descend at once, and most often last longer than a cold, which usually leaves your system in 7-10 days.

Medication - When avoidance doesn't do the trick, medication can ease your symptoms. Nasal steroid sprays are considered to be the gold standard, as they do a great job of decreasing inflammation, the number one dilemma with these allergies.

Antihistamines will ease a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. Second-generation antihistamines such as Claritin are now available over-the-counter and will not make you as sleepy as earlier versions.

If you are stuffy in addition to being sneezy, decongestants are your best bet. Use these only as directed, as they can have the reverse effect if overused. Ideally, use a decongestant before you are exposed to allergens.

Immunotherapy - Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are usually reserved for people who have more severe symptoms, as these can be expensive and time consuming. Shots will decrease your risk of developing asthma, however, so may be recommended for some.

Allergy Danger Zones
Untreated allergies can lead to complications; allergies are the number one risk factor for developing asthma, a much more serious lower respiratory condition. Other complications include sinus and ear infections resulting from chronic congestion. While all of these conditions are treatable, it is best to avoid them altogether by recognising and treating respiratory allergies early.