Allergy season is upon us. For some of us, it is already in full swing. For others, the season is just beginning. Today, we’ll talk about allergies and give you some tips on how to deal with them.
What is allergic rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis, often referred to as hay fever, is an allergic response to specific allergens. It is a common condition that causes symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. These symptoms occur when your immune system overreacts to particles in the air that you breathe in.
What causes allergic rhinitis?
The primary triggers of allergic rhinitis include pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. When you come into contact with these allergens, your body releases histamines and other chemicals, causing the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is often triggered by airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, while perennial (all year long) allergic rhinitis can be caused by indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander.Who is at risk for allergic rhinitis?
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the risk of developing this condition, including:
-
Family history – Such as having close relatives with allergies or asthma.
-
Environmental factors – Such as exposure to cigarette smoke, pollution, and other environmental irritants, especially at a young age.
How is allergic rhinitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis typically involves a physical examination and a review of medical history. Your doctor may also recommend allergy testing, such as skin tests or blood tests, to identify specific allergens that may be triggering your symptoms.
What are the treatment options for allergic rhinitis?
Treatment for allergic rhinitis focuses on reducing symptoms and avoiding allergens. Here are some possible treatments:
-
Medications – Which may include, antihistamines, decongestants, and/or nasal corticosteroids.
-
Immunotherapy – Exposing the body to small amounts of the substance to which you are allergic. This can be done through allergy shots or tablets or drops placed under your tongue. Immunotherapy is customized for each person, depending on their allergy triggers. This can help desensitize your immune system to specific allergens over time.
-
Home remedies – Saline nasal rinses and using air purifiers can also provide relief.
How can allergic rhinitis be prevented?
Here are some tips for preventing allergic rhinitis symptoms:
-
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
-
Use air conditioning to filter out allergens.
-
Regularly clean your home to reduce dust, mold, and pet dander. Consider using special filters for your vacuum cleaner that capture allergens.
-
Wash bedding frequently in hot water.
-
Avoid outdoor activities when pollen counts are high.
-
Have carpets and rugs professionally cleaned regularly or consider replacing carpets with hard floor surfaces, especially for perennial allergies.
-
Avoid using hairspray or gels during pollen season. They can trap pollen in your hair, and you don’t want pollen following you around all day in your hair!
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience persistent symptoms that interfere with your daily activities or quality of life, and over-the-counter medications do not provide relief or if you experience side effects from your current treatment plan, you should see your doctor.
Remember, managing allergic rhinitis effectively often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and environmental control measures. If you have any further questions, we are here to help.
If you have any questions about Allergic Rhinitis, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor