Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or perennial. Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs in spring and summer when pollen is high in the air. Year-round allergic rhinitis is caused by constant exposure to allergens such as house dust mites, mold spores or pet dander. Allergic rhinitis can negatively affect quality of life and make daily activities difficult. Treatment includes allergen avoidance, nasal irrigation, antihistamine drugs and nasal sprays to relieve symptoms. In some cases, immunotherapy (allergy vaccination) may be considered. These treatment options can help reduce the effects of allergic rhinitis and control symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis is a condition in which the nose and sinuses are hypersensitive to allergens. Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions in the body. Allergic rhinitis occurs when exposed to various allergens. These allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores and some foods. The basic mechanism of allergic rhinitis is an overreaction of the immune system. When it comes into contact with allergens, the immune system produces antibodies and releases chemicals such as histamine. This leads to inflammation, swelling and mucus production in the nose and sinuses. As a result, symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, itchy eyes and watering occur.
Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or year-round. Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs in spring and summer when pollen is high in the air. Year-round allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, is due to constant exposure to allergens. Allergic rhinitis can negatively affect quality of life and make daily activities difficult. In the treatment of allergic rhinitis, methods such as avoidance of allergens, antihistamine drugs, nasal sprays and allergy vaccination are used. The quality of life of the person can be improved by controlling the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Symptoms of allergic rhinitis are usually related to the nose, eyes and respiratory system. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis usually occur after exposure to allergens and may persist in the case of seasonal or year-round allergic rhinitis. Symptoms may differ between individuals and in some cases may adversely affect quality of life. Appropriate treatment methods can be used to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis:
- Nasal congestion: A feeling of nasal congestion occurs due to swelling of the nasal passages and accumulation of mucus. Nasal congestion can lead to difficulty breathing and congestion (widening of the nasal blood vessels).
- runny nose: Allergic rhinitis can cause a watery and clear nasal discharge as a result of inflammation of the nasal mucosa. This discharge is usually continuous and leaky in character.
- Sneeze: The sneeze reflex is often triggered by exposure to allergens. Successive episodes of sneezing may occur.
- Itchy nose: Allergic rhinitis is accompanied by an itchy sensation in the nose. There may be itching in the nose, on the wings of the nose or in the nasal cavity.
- Itching and watering of the eyes: Allergic rhinitis can cause sensitivity of the eyes. Itching, watering, redness and swelling around the eyes may occur in the eyes.
- Cough: Cough may develop with inhalation of allergens. Cough may be more common, especially in people with allergic asthma.
- Headache and fatigue: In severe cases of allergic rhinitis, headache, fatigue and weakness may occur.
Treatment for allergic rhinitis focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing exposure to allergens. Here are the common methods used to treat allergic rhinitis:
- Avoiding allergens: It is important to reduce exposure as much as possible to allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis. For example, if you are sensitive to pollen, you can limit time spent outdoors during the pollen season and use filtered air purifiers. If you are sensitive to house dust mites, you can take precautions such as washing bedding frequently, reducing dust mite accumulation on carpets, and cleaning regularly.
- Medication: There are several medications used to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines are used to reduce symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching. Decongestants can be used to relieve nasal congestion. Nasal sprays and eye drops are also other drug options used to relieve symptoms. However, their long-term use should be under the supervision of a doctor.
- Immunotherapy (allergy vaccine): For some people with allergic rhinitis, allergy vaccination, also known as immunotherapy, may be considered. This method of treatment aims to reduce the body’s response to allergens. By gradually administering small doses of allergens, the immune system develops tolerance to allergens. This treatment is usually a long-term treatment and is a process recommended by the doctor.
- Nasal irrigation: Nasal irrigation is a method used to clean the nasal cavity and relieve nasal congestion. Devices such as nasal sprays or neti pots are used to flush the nasal passages and clear mucus using sterile saline or special solutions.
Treatment for allergic rhinitis can vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the duration of exposure to allergens, and the individual’s specific needs. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor and determine appropriate treatment options.
How is allergic rhinitis treated?
Although it is not possible to completely cure allergic rhinitis, it is possible to alleviate and control symptoms. Below are some of the measures you can take to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including reducing contact with allergens. Try to reduce contact with allergens as much as possible. If you are affected by pollen, limit time spent outside during the pollen season and use filtered air purifiers. If you are sensitive to house dust mites, wash bedding regularly, reduce dust mite accumulation on carpets, and clean regularly.
Nasal irrigation can be done for the treatment of allergic asthma. It can relieve symptoms by clearing the nasal passages. Washing the nasal cavity using sterile saline or special solutions helps remove allergens and mucus. Antihistamines are drugs used to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. These medications reduce symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using antihistamines.
Nasal sprays that you can use when recommended by the doctor can be effective in relieving nasal congestion. However, their long-term use should be under the supervision of a doctor. Allergy vaccination, also known as immunotherapy, may be considered in some cases. This method of treatment helps to reduce the body’s response to allergens. Requires a long-term treatment plan to reduce exposure to allergens and is administered by a doctor.
There are various medications used to relieve and control the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Drugs commonly used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis:
- Antihistamines: Antihistamine medications block allergic reactions, relieving symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and eyes. Antihistamines are usually taken by mouth and are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Some antihistamines may have the potential to cause drowsiness, so non-drowsy options may be preferred.
- Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays are among the drugs used to relieve nasal congestion. Intranasal corticosteroid sprays reduce swelling and congestion by reducing inflammation in the nose. It is especially effective in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. However, their long-term use should be under the supervision of a doctor.
- Decongestants: Decongestant medications are used to temporarily relieve nasal congestion. They reduce swelling by narrowing the nasal vessels. These are generally suitable for short-term use because there is a risk of addiction with long-term use.
- eye drops: There are eye drops used to relieve eye itching, watering and redness due to allergic rhinitis. Eye drops containing antihistamine and stabilizing ingredients can help relieve symptoms.
- Nasal irrigation solutions: Nasal irrigation can be done using sterile saline or special solutions. This clears the nasal passages to remove allergens and mucus, helping to relieve symptoms.
The above medications are common medications used to relieve and control the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. However, the dosage and use of each drug may differ from person to person. It is important to consult a doctor before starting medication. The doctor will recommend the most appropriate drug therapy based on your symptoms and health condition.
What is seasonal allergic rhinitis?
Seasonal allergic rhinitis is a type of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) that occurs depending on the seasons as a result of contact with environmental allergens. This occurs as a result of contact with pollen, especially during flowering periods. Pollens are defined as dust-like structures emitted into the air during the reproductive process of trees, flowers, grasses, and herbivorous plants. Seasonal allergic rhinitis occurs when allergen pollens come into contact with the nose and eyes through inhalation. The immune system of people who are sensitive to pollen perceives the pollen as a harmful substance and initiates an allergic reaction. As a result of this reaction, symptoms such as inflammation in the nose, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy nose and eyes occur.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs in a particular season (spring, summer, or autumn) and symptoms subside or disappear during other seasons. This situation may vary depending on the concentration of allergen pollen in the atmosphere. Symptoms may be more pronounced, especially in areas with high pollen density and in people exposed to pollen. Seasonal allergic rhinitis can usually be managed with avoidance of allergen exposure, antihistamine medications, nasal sprays, and other symptom relief treatments. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment options to relieve and control your symptoms.
Is herbal treatment of allergic rhinitis possible?
Some herbal treatments may help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using herbal treatments, as everyone’s response to herbs may be different and the effectiveness of herbal treatments has not been scientifically proven. Herbal treatment methods of allergic rhinitis:
- Herbal teas: Some herbs may have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. For example, herbal teas such as chamomile tea, peppermint tea, and nettle tea can relieve allergic rhinitis symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
- Salt Water Irrigation: Salt water irrigation can be used to clean the inside of the nose and remove allergens. In this method, sterile saline or special nasal irrigation solutions are used. It can be effective for clearing the nasal passages, reducing congestion and relieving symptoms.
- Natural Antihistamines: Some foods may have natural antihistamine properties. Foods containing quercetin (apples, onions, broccoli), omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed, walnuts), spices such as ginger, turmeric, and fenugreek can help alleviate allergic reactions. Adding them to your diet can be helpful in reducing symptoms.
- Probiotics: Probiotics, which help improve gut health, may be effective at suppressing allergic reactions. Consuming probiotic-containing foods (yogurt, kefir, pickles) or probiotic supplements may relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
It should be noted that some herbs can cause side effects or allergic reactions. That’s why it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before using herbal treatments.