Allergic rhinitis is a result from inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes.

Mucous membranes in the nose may become inflamed when certain airborne allergens are inhaled. For those who are sensitive, these allergens stimulate an excessive immune reaction.

The body produces an immunoglobulin antibody (IgE) specific to that allergen and binds to mast cells that produce chemicals such as histamines. This is called “sensitization.” The next time your body comes into contact with the allergen, the antibody recognizes it, and the histamine is released. The histamine causes dilation of nasal blood vessels and inflammation of the mucous membranes, which result in common allergy symptoms.

 

Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Symptoms are caused when allergens or irritants create excessive congestion in the normal breathing process which may include:

• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itchy nose, ears, or throat
• Sinus pressure
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Dark circles under your eyes (also known as “allergic shiner”)
• Post-nasal drip
• Fatigue
• Decreased sense of smell and taste
• Chronic cough

Causes of Allergic Rhinitis

Genetic Factors - If both of your parents have allergic rhinitis, you have a 75% chance of developing it. If only one parent has allergic rhinitis, your risk is decreased to 50%.

Your risk of developing allergic rhinitis is increased if you have other allergies. The most common allergies or allergic conditions associated with allergic rhinitis include Eczema and Food allergies.

Other factors:-

• Dust mite
• Seed dust
• Wood dust
• Animal dander
• Textile dust
• Chemicals
• Rubber latex
• Certain foods and spices
• Storage mites

Complications of Allergic Rhinitis

In general, allergic rhinitis is a relatively mild condition that may cause discomfort, but is seldom serious. Some complications associated with allergic rhinitis include:

• Ear infections
• Sinusitis
• Recurrent sore throats
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Headache
• Decreased ability to concentrate and function
• Sleep disorders
• Missed days at work or school

Many parents of children with allergic rhinitis observe increased bad moods and irritability in their child's behavior during the allergy season. Since children cannot always express their uncomfortable or painful symptoms verbally, they may express their discomfort by acting up at school and at home. In addition, some kids feel that having an allergic disease is a stigma that separates them from other kids.

It is important that the irritability or other symptoms caused by ear, nose or throat trouble are not mistaken for attention deficit disorder. With proper treatment, symptoms can be kept under control and disruptions in learning and behavior can be avoided.

Treatments for Allergic Rhinitis

There is no cure for allergic rhinitis, but treatment may reduce or alleviate your symptoms. The primary treatment methods include avoiding allergens, taking medication, and immunotherapy (allergy shots).

Currently, there are no surgical treatments for allergic rhinitis.

Prevention

There are many types of allergens; therefore, it is nearly impossible to eliminate all allergens from your environment. There are many things you can do to help reduce allergens and minimize your exposure to allergy triggers such as:-

Control dust mites (waste products from microscopic organisms) by :

• Washing sheets and blankets weekly in hot water (130°F) and dry in a hot dryer.
• Cover mattresses and pillowcases with airtight allergen-proof covers.
• Replace comforters and pillows made from natural materials (such as down, feathers, or cotton) with those made from synthetic fibers.
• Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting (especially in the bedroom) as much as possible. If you have it, be sure to vacuum often.

Control Animal Dander - It is not animal fur that causes allergies, but a protein that exists in the saliva, urine, and skin flakes (dander) of animals. Keep your pet out of the rooms you use most frequently (such as the bedroom).

Control Pests - Studies have shown that people who live in environments that contain cockroaches and mice have a higher incidence of asthma and allergies. If pests are a chronic problem in your home, consider hiring an exterminator.

The spores of molds and fungi that thrive in warm, moist, and humid areas can create allergic reactions. To reduce indoor molds and fungi:

Avoid Airborne Irritants - Air irritants and pollutants can trigger an allergic reaction. You can do the following to help reduce your exposure to airborne irritants:

• Do not smoke or allow smoking in your home.
• Avoid areas with fresh paint fumes.
• Avoid the fumes of strong cleaning products.
• Avoid perfumes and aerosols when possible.

Clean and vacuum frequently, using HEPA filters.

Use fans to promote air circulation.

Use an electrostatic air purifier.

Use a dehumidifier in damp areas.

Decrease Exposure to Outdoor Allergens by

• Avoid raking, mowing, blowing leaves, and other outdoor activities that might put you in contact with allergens.
• Activities like as gardening or farming are associated with very high levels of exposure to molds and may need to be curtailed completely.
• Close windows and stay indoors (with airconditioning, when appropriate) when pollen counts are high.
• Time your outdoor recreational activities (hiking, bicycling, camping, etc) for times of year when pollen counts are lower.

Natural Home Remedies for Allergic Rhinitis

Eat a diet rich in inflammation-fighting antioxidants like fruits, vegetables and beans.

Probiotic supplements might lessen the severity of your reaction. Probiotic supplements come in a variety of forms; take as directed on the product label.

Vitamin C acts as a natural antihistamine.

Stinging nettle is also a popular traditional remedy for easing symptoms of allergic rhinitis.