Allergic rhinitis is a way our organisms react to certain irritants. Disease is activated at the slightest contact with allergens: animal hair, fungus and others. This disease is not contagious.
Causes of allergic rhinitis
It happens if the IS demonstrates its reactions to foreign particles. They are so small and can enter the organism through nasal cavities. Mostly, allergens do not pose any danger. However, if a person suffers from hay fever, then IS will perceive allergens as the strongest threat and react to its presence. Thus, IS intends to defend the organism and releases histamine in blood – a special chemical substance.
This condition can occur year-round or seasonally if the following factors are present:
- contacts with a dust mite living in linen, furniture, etc.;
- dandruff and pets’ hair;
- fungal mold;
- cockroaches and traces of their vital activity in the premises.
In addition, there is a food allergy, which appears when an allergen-product enters the body. This is a rather dangerous situation that requires immediate medical attention.
Allergic rhinitis symptoms
Hay fever manifests its symptomatology yearly or seasonally. In spring and summer periods, as well as in early autumn, disease symptomatology is greatly aggravated outdoors. In particular, flowers’ pollen, etc., may force such reactions.
Allergic rhinitis has next-mentioned general manifestations:
- congestion;
- severe headaches;
- sinusitis;
- throat and nasal cavities itching;
- appearance of puffiness;
- malaise;
- strong uncomfortable feelings in body;
- runny nose;
- wheezing and cough;
- labored breathing.
Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis
Doctors ask the patient about the presence of general manifestations and examine the eyes and other membranes. Physicians may also take a blood sample to detect presence of antibodies to certain irritants. It’s known as immunoglobulin tests. With its help, allergies are determined.
Doctors may also order a prick test. During it, the specialist applies a little of the allergen to shoulder skin, after making a tiny puncture on the skin. After the allergen enters the skin, the body may show a certain reaction, including redness and itching. It means people are receptive to a specific irritant.
Treatment for allergic rhinitis
Some medications helps to diminish intensity of ailment symptoms:
- pills, injections and sprays;
- antihistamines blocking histamine action: inhalers, sprays, etc.;
- decongestants: drug reducing congestion and eliminate swelling from sinuses;
- inhibitors;
- immunotherapy – injections of allergen; then, quantities of allergen introduced becomes higher. This helps the body develop immunity to effects of a particular stimulus.
In some cases, doctors prescribe a milder immuno-therapy in tablets that the patient swallows.
