Conditions of the Nose

Allergic Rhinitis

The term rhinitis implies an inflammatory response of the lining of the membrane of the nose. Between 10 and 20% of the population suffer to some degree from nasal hypersensitivity, which symptoms include chronic sneezing, runny nose or a blocked nose.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis is also known as hay fever, it is caused by allergies to various types of pollen, but suffers can also experience perennial allergic rhinitis, which is caused by allergies to things like dust mites, chemicals, food and cats.

Many suffers may have associated evidence of sensitivity such as asthma, eczema, allergic dermatitis and drug allergies.

How is allergic rhinitis diagnosed?

To establish whether an allergic reaction is the cause of your rhinitis your consultant is likely to, ascertain the history of your symptoms, the exact month your symptoms occur can give a clue to whether the allergic symptoms are seasonal or perennial. An examination will be undertaken and possibly skin prick tests to identify the specific allergens involved.

How is allergic rhinitis treated?

There are three main options in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

1. Allergen avoidance measures

Total eradication of the allergen is usually not possible, but measures to reduce the allergen in the local environment should be encouraged. The measures to be used will differ depending on the nature of the allergen. But may include:

   Changing a feather pillow to a low allergenic type
   Washing sheets at 60 degrees
   Using approved allergen covers for the mattress, pillow and duvet
   Avoiding carpets and heavy drapes.

2. Drug treatment

Patients need drugs for allergic rhinitis if avoiding the allergen is impossible or fails to control the symptoms.

Decongestants simply relieve symptoms; your consultant is likely to prescribe topical or systemic medication to block the effects of the allergens.

3. Desensitisation

Desensitisation injections may be offered via a specialist allergist.