Appointment

Rhinitis Allergy

  • Home
  • Rhinitis Allergy
rhinitis

Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergen, such as pollen, dust, mould, etc. Some people only get allergic rhinitis for a few months at a time because they are sensitive to seasonal allergens, such as tree or grass pollen. Other people get allergic rhinitis all year round.

Most people with allergic rhinitis have mild symptoms that can be easily and effectively treated. However, for some, symptoms can be severe and persistent, causing sleep problems and interfering with everyday life.

Allergic rhinitis typically causes cold-like symptoms, such as sneezing, itchiness and a blocked or runny nose. These symptoms usually start soon after being exposed to an allergen.

You should visit your doctor if the symptom of allergic rhinitis are disrupting your sleep, impairing your ability to carry out everyday activities or adversely affecting your performance at work or school.

In cases of allergic rhinitis, the immune system (the body's natural defence against infection and illness) reacts to an allergen as if it were harmful.

If your immune system is oversensitive, it will react to allergens by producing antibodies to fight them off. Antibodies are special proteins in the blood that are usually produced to fight viruses and infections.

After you develop sensitivity to an allergen, whenever it comes into contact with the inside of your nose and throat, it will be detected by antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE).

Although it is difficult to completely avoid potential allergens, taking steps to reduce your exposure to allergen that is triggering your allergic rhinitis can help improve your symptoms.

In some cases, allergic rhinitis can lead to complications. These includes:
  • Nasal Polyps
  • Sinusitis
  • Middle ear infections
  • These problems can be treated with medication in early stage, although surgery is needed in later stages.
  • Reference NHS, England.