Allergic Rhinitis

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Allergic rhinitis is defined as the inflammation of the mucus membrane of the nose, eyes, eustachian tube, pharynx, middle ear, sinuses. Generally, the nose is invariably involved, while certain individuals affect other organs Read More

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Allergic Rhinitis

allergic rhinitis
Picture Courtesy: Medlineplus
Allergic rhinitis is defined as the inflammation of the mucus membrane of the nose, eyes, eustachian tube, pharynx, middle ear, sinuses. Generally, the nose is invariably involved, while certain individuals affect other organs [1]. Severe allergic rhinitis occurs due to lack of sleep, leading to poor quality of life and work performance [2]. It occurs whenever we contact allergens such as dust, pollen, mold inhalation or animal dander, etc.  The condition itself is not a life-threatening condition. It becomes severe only when it is associated with asthma or anaphylaxis

Allergic Rhinitis Treatment

Treatment includes four categories. They are:
  1. Allergic avoidance and environmental control measures.
  2. Pharmacological medications include:
  • According to the doctor’s advice, antihistamines fight against histamines, available in various forms such as nasal sprays, creams, or tablets. It is very effective and stops the runny nose, itchiness, headache, scratchy throat as fast as possible. Use eye drops if eyes become red and watery. Popular and efficient antihistamines are Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra.
  • Nasal irrigations
  • Decongestants – help in relieving congestion of nose or sinuses.
  • Corticosteroids
  • Leukotriene inhibitors such as montelukast is also useful in the treatment.
  • Intranasal antihistamines or corticosteroids spray or a combination of both.
  1. Immunotherapy – It is an effective management in treating allergic rhinitis. The administration is regular with a weekly incremental increase in dose for a longer duration. The administration of immunotherapy is through subcutaneous and sublingual routes.
  2. Surgical care- Turbinoplasty is effective in cases of persistent allergic rhinitis [3]. 

Types of Allergic Rhinitis

  1. Seasonal allergic rhinitis occurs in a specific season or when the season changes, mostly during autumn and spring.
  2. Perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by cockroach bite, mold, animal hair, and dust.
  3. Occupational allergic rhinitis- caused by an allergic reaction to a substance present in the workplace such as wood, dust, grains, chemicals, etc.
  4. Other types:
  • Vasomotor Rhinitis
It is a form of chronic rhinitis, with symptoms like sneezing, rhinorrhea, and affecting blood vessels.
  • Non-Allergic Rhinitis
It is similar to vasomotor rhinitis because both have similar symptoms. Also, it has some symptoms similar to fever.
  • Gustatory Rhinitis
It happens mostly due to weird eating habits and certain food items. Sweating occurs occasionally, and lacrimation also. symptoms of allergic rhinitis                  Picture Courtesy: sciencedirect  

Diagnosis

Allergic rhinitis is usually a long-standing disease, which often goes undetected in primary care settings. Complete medical history/ family history and physical examination help establish the diagnosis. A few of the diagnostic tests are as follows:
  • Skin prick test.
  • Allergen-specific IgE tests.
  • Blood tests such as radioallergosorbent tests (RAST) [4].
 

Symptoms

  • Nose Itching
  • Cough and sneezing
  • Nosebleeds
  • Watery eyes
  • Repetitive headaches
  • Sore and painful throat
  • Unable to smell and taste
  • Sinuses becomes inactive
  • Pain in face
  • Insomnia
  • Fatigue

Causes

It happens when the airways swell and particularly triggers the mucous membrane of the nose. It also depends on which season and month and changes defined as seasonal allergic rhinitis. It causes due to:

  •  Animal Saliva
  •  Tree pollens
  •  Flower pollen
  •  Airborne mold spores
  •  Ragweed

FAQ

1. What will happen if Allergic rhinitis is left untreated?

If left untreated, symptoms typically worsen, and serious complications occur in the organs. For example, ear infections, acute rhinitis, sinusitis, etc., can easily happen.

2. Is taking an antihistamine every day bad for you?

Yes, some side effects are there if you use antihistamine for the long-term such as headache, fatigue, dry mouth, constipation etc. 

3. What are the home remedies for allergic rhinitis?

Lukewarm Ginger water or tea, tulsi (Holy Basil), fenugreek, mint leaves, etc., are some of the best food options that one should consider in the diet for amazing benefits and relieve allergic rhinitis.

4. What is generally the cost of allergic immunotherapy?

The cost of treatment varies from country to country. in India, it is about Rs. 3000-4000 (approx. 50 – 60 $). per month but it fluctuates and depends on your allergy level and hospital.

 

References:

  1. emedicine.
  2. Dykewicz MS, Hamilos DL. Rhinitis and sinusitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;125:S103–15.
  3. Chhabra N, Houser SM. The surgical management of allergic rhinitis. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2011 Jun. 44 (3):779-95, xi.
  4. https://aacijournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13223-018-0280-7