Allergic rhinitis is a common type of allergy that affects the respiratory system. In this specific condition, the inflammatory reaction of the mucous membrane that lines the nasal cavity is caused when it comes into contact with an allergenic agent. This allergen triggers the immune system of sensitive individuals to overreact. The main allergen that causes allergic rhinitis is pollen.
Allergic rhinitis: Types
This condition is divided into seasonal and year-round, depending on whether it manifests itself throughout the year or in specific seasons. The seasonal form of the condition usually occurs in the spring and fall and is usually a response to outdoor allergens such as pollen. The perennial form of allergic rhinitis can occur year-round or at any time during the year in response to indoor substances such as dust mites and pet fur.
At the same time, allergic rhinitis can be classified into intermittent and persistent, depending on the duration of the symptoms. Some people experience symptoms only rarely. This most likely occurs when exposed to large amounts of allergens. Other people experience symptoms year-round.
Rhinitis due to an allergenic agent: Types
The cause of allergic rhinitis is the cells’ excessive production of a substance called histamine when the immune system comes into contact with an allergen. When the body comes into contact with an allergen, it releases histamine, which is a natural chemical that protects the body from that particular irritant. The most common allergens are flower and tree pollen, grass, mold, some fungi and mites, dust, fur and saliva of animals and bird feathers. At certain times of the year such as spring, pollen can be particularly problematic.
Rhinitis due to an allergenic agent: Symptoms
The most common symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, runny or itchy nose, nasal congestion, cough, pain or discomfort in the throat area, itchy and watery eyes with dark circles. Other symptoms include frequent headaches, dry, itchy or eczematous skin, or extreme fatigue. Contact with an allergen immediately causes the manifestation of one or more symptoms. Some symptoms, such as recurring headaches and fatigue, may only appear after long-term exposure to allergens.
Allergic rhinitis: Diagnosis
The diagnosis of allergic rhinitis is carried out by ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou by taking the patient’s history, clinical examination and nasal and nasopharyngeal endoscopy, where the affected area and especially the nasal mucosa is examined in detail. To determine the allergy, the skin prick test can be performed, where the doctor places several substances on the patient’s skin to see how the body reacts to each of them. Usually, a small red bump appears if the patient is allergic to a substance. Finally, the diagnosis can be made with blood tests known as the RAST test, which measures the amount of immunoglobulin E antibodies to specific allergens in the blood.
The therapeutic treatment of allergic rhinitis is carried out by administering antihistamine and decongestant pills, with decongestant nasal sprays or nasal sprays containing corticosteroids. At the same time, it is recommended to carry out nasal washes with saline and hypertonic solutions. In case of more severe symptoms, immunotherapy is recommended.