Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is an allergic reaction to microscopic airborne particles known as allergens. When you inhale allergens through your nose or mouth, your body responds by generating a natural molecule called histamine. Despite its name, hay fever is not caused by hay, and the majority of people do not get a fever. Hay fever symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, and nose, throat, mouth, and eye irritation. Allergic rhinitis is not the same as infectious rhinitis, also known as the common cold. Hay fever is not communicable. Additionally, not all rhinitis is allergic. Many people suffer from nonallergic rhinitis, which produces comparable symptoms. Rhinitis is caused by inflammation rather than by allergens or histamine release.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hay fever are:

• Nasal stuffiness.

• Itching in the nose, throat, and eyes.

• Eyes can be red or watery.

• Headaches, sinus pressure, and dark circles under the eyes.

• More mucus in the nose and throat.

• Tiredness.

• Sore throat caused by mucus dripping down the throat.

• Wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Causes

Allergic rhinitis is caused by several allergens, including:

• Dust mites live in carpets, curtains, bedding, and furniture.

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.

• Pet dander.

• Mold spores.

• Cockroaches.

Diagnosis

If you suspect allergic rhinitis, your healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis by:

• Medical history and symptom analysis: Determine when and where symptoms appear.

• Skin prick test: The skin is exposed to small amounts of allergens to see if it reacts.

• Blood test: This test measures the levels of allergy-related antibodies (IgE) in the blood.

Treatment

Managing allergic rhinitis entails avoiding triggers and administering suitable remedies. Here are a few of the more effective alternatives:

• Avoiding allergens: To reduce allergy exposure and alleviate symptoms, keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers and dehumidifiers to reduce indoor allergens, wash bedding and vacuum regularly to minimize dust mites, and bathe pets frequently and keep them out of bedrooms.

• Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription medications can provide relief, such as antihistamines can help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Nasal corticosteroids, such as fluticasone and budesonide, help to reduce inflammation and congestion. Decongestants provide temporary relief from nasal congestion (e.g., pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline). Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast, are used to treat more severe symptoms and are frequently prescribed for allergies and asthma.

• Immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets): For long-term relief, allergen immunotherapy can help desensitize the immune system. It involves receiving regular injections or sublingual tablets with gradually increasing doses of allergens to build tolerance.

• Natural remedies and lifestyle changes: Natural therapies and lifestyle changes include saline nasal irrigation, steam inhalation, herbal cures, a nutritious diet, and adequate hydration.

Prevention

To relieve symptoms, you should:

• Avoid touching or rubbing your face, eyes, or nose.

• During the spring, summer, and early fall, when pollen counts are highest, keep windows closed in your home and car.

• To protect yourself from dust mites, cover your pillows, mattresses, and box springs.

• Keep pets off of couches and beds, and close doors to rooms you do not want them to enter.

• Use filters in your vacuum cleaner and air conditioner to reduce allergens in the air.

• Wash your hands frequently, particularly after playing with pets.

• When you are outside, wear a hat and sunglasses to keep pollen away from your eyes. Change your clothes as soon as you arrive indoors.

Conclusion

Allergic rhinitis is a common yet manageable condition. By understanding triggers, adopting preventive measures, and using appropriate treatments, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice can help tailor a more effective treatment plan. With the right approach, living comfortably with allergic rhinitis is entirely possible.