 Allergic rhinitis is inflammation, swelling, excessive secretions and itching within the nose and sinuses. Lots of people refer to allergic rhinitis as hay fever or seasonal allergies. Allergic rhinitis is caused by the inhaled allergy triggers, such as dust, pollens, molds, dog or cat or other animal dander, and proteins that are present on cockroaches or in their saliva and feces.
Airborne allergens penetrate into the eyes, nose and throat. There they physically join to IgE (immunoglobulin E) antibodies that have been made by your immune system. After an IgE antibody attaches to an allergen particle, the antibody is able to trigger a modification in cells that are called mast cells. Mast cells then produce a shower of histamines into their environment. Histamines lead to inflammation, local swelling, itchiness, sneezing and mucus production inside the nose. The eyes also become itchy, red and teary.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis:
- Stuffy nose
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Red, itchy, watery eyes with clear discharge
- Irritated throat
- Itchy skin
The most appropriate time for the seasonal form of allergic rhinitis is the spring, summer or fall. Some people experience symptoms in one, two or three of these seasons. It all depends on what time of year the certain tree, plant or grass you are allergic to produces its pollen or seeds. For example, allergies to animal dander, mold, dust mites and cockroaches are worse in the winter, when you spend more time indoors.
Treatment concentrates on controlling symptoms by eliminating the inflammatory response and blocking the release or the effects of histamine. You can prevent the potential side effects of oral medications by using topical medicines for the nose and eyes, like nasal sprays and eye drops. Nevertheless, the best way to control or prevent your symptoms is to avoid your allergy triggers. For allergic rhinitis, there are a multitude of effective preventive measures to reduce exposure to indoor allergens.
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