Allergic Rhinitis: Causes and Treatment
The word ‘rhinitis’ means inflammation of the nose and if this is caused by an allergy, it’s known as ‘allergic rhinitis’. Allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, is an allergy to pollen. Typically, grass or tree pollen are the culprits. They cause itchy eyes, nose, and throat, plus sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. These symptoms occur in what’s known as hay fever season, which is typically from the end of March to July but varies depending on where you are in the country and whether your allergy is to grass pollen or tree pollen. House dust mite and pet allergy can trigger allergic rhinitis at any time of the year.
Allergic rhinitis is very common, with around 7-8% of people in the US suffering with it at some point in their life; however, it most commonly starts as a child or teenager. It can run in families, and you are more likely to have allergic rhinitis if you also suffer from asthma or eczema. Allergic rhinitis is not contagious.
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How do I know what pollen I am allergic to?
Identifying the specific pollen you’re allergic to can help you manage hay fever (allergic rhinitis) more effectively. In the US, the main culprits of pollen allergies include tree pollen (spring), grass pollen (summer), and weed pollen (late summer to autumn). Here’s how to pinpoint what might be triggering your symptoms:
1. Track the timing of your symptoms
Pollen allergies tend to follow seasonal patterns. Monitoring when your symptoms—such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or throat irritation—occur can give you a clue:
- Tree pollen - February to May (birch, oak, and alder are common allergens).
- Grass pollen - May to July (the most common allergen in the US).
- Weed pollen - June to September (plants like nettle, mugwort, and ragweed).
2. Use pollen count apps or websites
Check specific pollen forecasts for your area. These tools often indicate which types of pollen are prevalent on a given day. Comparing this data with your symptoms can help narrow down the culprit.
3. Keep a symptom diary
Documenting your symptoms over weeks or months can reveal patterns. Note the severity, timing, and location of your symptoms, as well as the weather and outdoor activities you participated in.
4. Skin prick testing
A visit to an allergy clinic or an immunologist can provide definitive answers. Skin prick tests involve placing small amounts of allergens on your skin and observing your body’s reaction. This is one of the most reliable methods to determine specific pollen sensitivities.
Healthwords pharmacists' top tips
People suffering from allergic rhinitis and allergies may suffer from the full spectrum of symptoms associated with this or just one symptom. In most cases, it's best to take a stepwise approach.
Taking an antihistamine will often relieve most symptoms, such as sneezing, drying up a runny streaming nose, and watery eyes. Any remaining symptoms, such as sinus congestion or red itchy eyes, can be resolved by add-on treatments such as a nasal spray or eye drops.
There may be a few cautions on pharmacy products if you are pregnant or you wear contact lenses. It's important that those who are pregnant try drug-free treatments first, such as sea salt-based nasal spray, and speak to your pharmacist or doctor before taking antihistamine tablets.
Not all eye drops are suitable for those wearing contact lenses, so it's important to check the product information carefully when deciding what to use.
If in any doubt, speak to your pharmacist.
Pharmacy Treatments
When should I see my doctor?
You should book a routine doctor appointment if you have used over-the-counter medications from the pharmacy for two weeks and had no improvement or if your symptoms are worsening.
The doctor will ask you about your medical history and current symptoms. Depending on your symptoms, they may examine your eyes and listen to your chest. Your doctor can prescribe different medications unavailable in the pharmacy or, in some severe cases, refer you for specialist input.
Am I fit for work?
You are fit for work if you have allergic rhinitis.
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