Description

Allergic Rhinitis

What is Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)?

Allergic rhinitis literally means allergy-induced rhinitis. It occurs when
allergens enter the airway in the nose and adhere to the mucosa and trigger
inflammatory reactions. The type of allergic rhinitis that occurs in some
seasons (in the spring when the pollens fly) is also called seasonal
rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is also known as hay fever.

There is also a year-round type of allergic rhinitis and
is called perennial rhinitis. Perennial rhinitis is caused by allergens
such as animal hair, various chemicals or house dust, which are usually in the
same environment throughout the year.

What are the Causes of Allergic Rhinitis?

Pollen and trees are the most common causes of allergic
rhinitis. Again, common factors such as mold, animal hair and house dust
can also cause allergic rhinitis. In dry and windy weather and in certain
seasons, the amount of pollen in the air increases, which can trigger allergic
rhinitis. The causes of allergic rhinitis that lasts longer or lasts all
year are usually cockroaches and house dust mites. Pets can also increase
the severity of the disease.

What are the Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis?

– Runny nose and nasal congestion
– Watering and itching in the eyes – Sneezing, coughing and sore throat
– Itching in the throat, nose or upper palate
– Pressure and facial pain in the sinuses
– Swelling of the eyes and a bluish color
– Reduced sense of smell and taste
– Common in pediatric patients frequent hand rubbing and scratching movement
– Fatigue, perception difficulty, sleep disturbance
– Sometimes these symptoms may be accompanied by wheezing, cough and headache.

Age of Occurrence of Allergic Rhinitis

This disease is more common in people with allergy predisposition, often
referred to as atopic. Atopic individuals are also prone to other allergic
diseases (eczema, asthma, urticaria). The incidence of allergic rhinitis
increases in individuals with a family history of allergic diseases. It
was rarely seen that this disease, whose symptoms began before the age of 40
and whose severity decreased with age, completely resolved. However, with
the necessary precautions and appropriate treatments, the severity of the
disease can be reduced considerably.

How is Allergic Rhinitis Diagnosed?

In the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, physicians first consider the symptoms
seen in the patient, in which season, when they are encountered and how these
symptoms occur. Although the results of the tests are negative, the
physician can diagnose allergic rhinitis in the light of the symptoms seen.

In the examination, the patient’s nasal mucosa and other
points are examined first. There are many diagnostic tests, such as the
IgE antibody test, for definitive diagnosis. Allergy tests applied to the
skin and called the prick test are one of the most commonly used
methods. On examination, nasal discharge, pale color in the nose, clear
secretion increase, edema and flesh growth can be seen. When viewed
through the mouth, postnasal drip and pharyngitis can be seen.

How is Allergic Rhinitis Treated?

It is not possible to cure this disease completely. Treatment is aimed at relieving complaints. In the
treatment, drugs called antihistamines, which prevent the release of the
disease-causing substance when allergen is encountered, are used. These
drugs are generally very effective, especially when used before exposure to the
allergen, giving good results. These drugs minimize symptoms such as
itching, discharge, and sneezing. Another option used in the treatment of
the disease is nasal sprays containing cortisone. However, all drugs
should be given under the control of the physician, taking into account the
severity of the disease and the patient’s condition. The treatment of the
disease should also include environmental control counseling.