What You Have to Know about Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is there’s an inflammation in the nose caused by the reaction of the human immune system to the presence of allergens in the air. Allergen can be pet dander, dust mites, mold, or pollen. For many people, these are actually harmless substances. But for other people, these particles cause an overreaction of the immune system that leads to allergic rhinitis.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 8% of the US adult population have some type of allergic rhinitis. Experts also estimate that 10% to 30% of the worldwide population currently have allergic rhinitis as well.

Common Symptoms

Here are some of the more typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

• sneezing
• runny, stuffy, or itchy nose
• coughing
• sore or scratchy throat
• itchy or watery eyes
• dark circles under the eyes
• having extremely dry, itchy skin that can blister and weep, and other symptoms similar to eczema
• hives
• excessive fatigue
• frequent headaches

You may have at least one of these symptoms right after you come into contact with the allergen. The frequent headaches and the excess fatigue, however, may only develop after long-term exposure to the allergens.

For some people, these symptoms may be experienced all year long. This can certainly happen when nothing is done about removing the presence of the allergens from the patient or if the person is especially sensitive.

In other cases, a person may experience these symptoms very rarely. It may only happen during the times when they’re exposed to large amounts of the allergens.

Potential Allergens

The most common allergens are grass and tree pollens. Other typical allergens include mold, cat saliva, dust mites (found in dust), and pet dander (referring to old animal skin).

In the spring, tree and flower pollens become much more common. In the summer and fall, weeds and grasses produce more pollen. If you have hay fever at the same time each year, this can indicate what kinds of pollens you’re allergic to.

When you inhale or get into contact with any of these allergens, your immune system can react by releasing histamine. This is a chemical that the body naturally produces to protect the body against the allergens. However, it’s also the chemical that can cause allergic rhinitis.

Other Risk Factors

What makes a person more likely to get allergic rhinitis? Here are some risk factors that can increase your chances of getting hay fever:

• air pollution and fumes
• chemicals
• cigarette or wood smoke
• cold temperatures
• hairspray
• humidity
• perfumes and colognes
• wind

Since ENT problem is quite different from case to case, it is suggested to consult an ENT doctor for the appropriate ENT services.

Source:

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

Hong Kong based ENT clinic centre

For ENT Services, Audiology & Speech Therapy,

Sleep Disordered Breathing Management,

Hearing Aid Prescription & Medical Cosmetic Services

https://www.hkentspecialist.hk