Allergic rhinitis

Symptoms and causes

What is it?

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction of the nasal mucous membrane. This occurs in about 20-30% of the population.

Symptoms

runny nose
nasal congestion
sneezing
itching of the nose and eyes
throat pain

This excessive reaction of the nasal mucosa can be caused by the following allergens:

dust mites
grass and tree pollen
animals
...

The symptoms can be seasonal, as is the case with a pollen allergy, or can be present year round, like in dust mite allergy.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is made based on the symptoms and allergy tests. The allergy tests can be performed through a blood draw or with a skin prick test. In a skin prick test, small scratches are applied to the forearm on which a drop of liquid containing an allergen (i.e. substance that can provoke an allergic reaction) is applied. If this results in a red lump, there is an allergic reaction.

A control drop is also applied to the arm, which should always cause a reaction. If this is not the case, the test is not reliable (e.g.. patient has taken anti-allergic medication that suppresses the reaction to the drops). That is why it is best not to take an allergy pill one for a whole week prior to the test.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can be prevented by avoiding the allergens or through medication.

Measures

Avoiding allergens is often very difficult, but the following measures can help:

house dust mite: house dust-mite proof mattress covers, wash bedding regularly (weekly) at 60°, remove carpets and cuddly toys, use a hoover with a HEPA filter
pollen: wear sunglasses, keep windows closed
pets: removing a pet from the domestic environment is not useful in the short term. Research shows that pet allergens remain in the home for years after removal and can provoke allergic symptoms.