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Allergic rhinitis: what you need to know
Relevance of the problem
Allergic rhinitis affects about 20–30% of the world's population. It is not life-threatening, but it significantly impairs quality of life. In children, it can affect learning, and in adults, it can affect work capacity. Modern medicine indicates an increase in the number of such cases due to urbanization, climate change, and decreased immune defenses.
Reasons for development
Allergic rhinitis is the result of the body's overreaction to certain substances in the environment. The most common allergens are:
pollen from trees, grasses, weeds
animal hair
mold spores
cockroaches
latex or chemicals (less common)
Mechanism of allergic reaction
When an allergen enters the body, the immune system mistakenly perceives it as a threat. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is produced, which activates the release of histamine. This causes symptoms - swelling, itching, tearing, sneezing.
Classification
| Type of allergic rhinitis | Features |
|---|---|
| Seasonal | Occurs at certain times of the year due to plant pollen |
| Year-round | Associated with household or occupational allergens |
| Episodic | Occurs after brief contact with an allergen |
Main symptoms
Constant or paroxysmal sneezing
Nasal congestion
Nasal discharge (clear, liquid)
Itching in the nose, ears, or throat
Tearing, redness of the eyes
Impaired sense of smell
Diagnostic methods
Anamnesis — studying complaints and seasonality.
Physical examination — swelling of the mucous membrane, absence of purulent discharge.
Allergy tests:
skin prick tests
definition specific IgE in the blood
Nasal endoscopy (if necessary, rule out other causes).
Rhinocytogram — analysis of the cellular composition of nasal secretions.
Treatment
The approach should be milestone:
Allergen elimination (if possible)
Antihistamines second generation
Nasal steroids with moderate and severe course
Immunotherapy (SIT) — in chronic course
Barrier sprays — modern auxiliary option
Prevention
Wet cleaning several times a week
Reducing the amount of textiles at home (carpets, heavy curtains)
Air purification using HEPA filters
Avoiding being outdoors during peak pollen periods
Keeping a «symptom diary» to analyze triggers
Clinical recommendations
According to ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma):
Allergic rhinitis should be treated systemically, not symptomatically.
Ignoring symptoms often leads to the development of asthma.
Children with allergic rhinitis need regular follow-up with an ENT specialist and an allergist.
Allergic rhinitis is often underestimated, perceived as a simple runny nose. However, prolonged lack of control can lead to chronic inflammation, the addition of infections, as well as a deterioration in the quality of life. Timely diagnosis and adherence to modern recommendations are the key to a full life without constant sneezing.
