Allergic Rhinits: What is it?

Allergic rhinits is a fancy word that refers to various types of nasal allergies. It is sometime referred to as hay fever.  There are two classifications: seasonal and perennial.

Seasonal allergies refers to symptoms developing at certain times of the year. Tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, and outdoor mold spores fall into this category. The types of allergic rhinitis that produce symptoms year-round are; dust mites, cockroaches, pet dander, and indoor mold growth.

No one knows for sure why we develop allergic rhinitis. It is thought that heredity plays a role. The specific type of allergy is not passed down.  Rather, the likelihood of developing a type of nasal allergy is passed on. These people are more prone to developing allergies.

The allergic reaction is an inappropriate response by the immune system. It is reacting to a harmless substance as harmful. When pollen enters the nose, the body detects it.  The immune system produces IgE antibodies.

Upon the next exposure, the antibodies again detect the non-self substance. They launch an attack by signaling to the mast cells to burst open.  Mast cells are found in the ports of entry into the body and release inflammatory chemicals. Histamine is the most well known. It is the release of histamine that causes the allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Allergic rhinitis robs us of our quality of life.  It is not a condition to be ignored. If nothing is done, other complications can occur such as: developing sinusitis, nasal polyps, allergic conjunctivitis, eczema, and postnasal drip. It exacerbates asthma symptoms.

One of the most important things you can do if you suspect that you have some type of allergy is to get yourself tested. Because there are so many different types, treatment and prevention depends on knowing what you are allergic to.

The avoidance strategy involves three simple steps

1. Identify the allergen that is giving you problems.

2. Learn how to avoid the conditions of high concentrations.

3. Allergy proof your home. (Start with one room at a time.)

You'll be amazed at how small steps can yield big rewards and give back our quality of life to us. Make this the cornerstone to any treatment plan that you and you doctor develop.