Allergic Rhinitis: Putting an End to a Runny Nose

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal lining triggered by exposure to an allergen. It can be seasonal (pollens) or perennial (dust mites, animals, molds).

Typical Symptoms

• Sneezing in bursts
• Clear rhinorrhea (runny nose like water)
• Nasal obstruction
• Nasal itching
• Frequent associated conjunctivitis (red eyes, watery eyes)

Diagnosis

• Skin prick tests: results in 20 minutes, gold standard method
• Specific IgE levels: blood test, useful when skin tests are not feasible

Treatments

1. Avoidance: limit contact with the allergen (anti-dust mite covers, air filters, limit outdoor activities during pollen peaks)
2. Oral antihistamines: cetirizine, loratadine, bilastine. Prefer non-sedating 2nd generation ones.
3. Nasal corticosteroids: fluticasone, mometasone. More effective than antihistamines for nasal obstruction.
4. Allergen immunotherapy (desensitization): the only treatment that modifies the natural history of the disease. Duration: 3-5 years sublingual or injection.

Untreated allergic rhinitis is a risk factor for asthma. Treating it also protects your bronchi.