Allergic Rhinitis Allergy & Asthma Center of Duncanville
Overview
Allergic rhinitis – commonly known as hay fever – is a group of symptoms affecting the nose. But don’t be misled by the name – you don’t have to be exposed to hay to have symptoms. And hay fever doesn’t cause a fever.
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Seasonal: Symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis can occur in spring, summer, and early fall. They are usually caused by allergic sensitivity to airborne mold spores or to pollens from trees, grass, and weeds.
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Perennial: People with perennial allergic rhinitis experience symptoms year-round. It is generally caused by dust mites, pet hair or dander, cockroaches, or mold. Underlying or hidden food allergies rarely cause perennial nasal symptoms.
Some people may experience both types of rhinitis, with perennial symptoms getting worse during specific pollen seasons. There are also nonallergic causes for rhinitis including irritants such as cigarette or other smoke, perfumes, cleaning products and other strong odors.
Symptoms
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Runny nose
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Itchy eyes, mouth or skin
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Sneezing
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Stuffy nose due to blockage or congestion
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Fatigue (often reported due to poor quality sleep as a result of nasal obstruction)
Management & Treatment
- Avoidance of Outdoor or Indoor Exposures and Exposure to pets
- Medications:
- Intranasal Corticosteroids
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Nasal Sprays
- Leukatriene pathway inhibitors
Treatments that are NOT recommended for allergic rhinitis
- Antibiotics
- Nasal surgery
Feel better, sooner.
Let our trained allergy providers help you and your family. Set an appointment with us today!